Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s “Luther” hits 5x platinum eligibility
Kendrick Lamar and SZA are redefining what it means to dominate the music business. Their latest collaboration, “Luther,” is greater than only a hit—it’s a cultural second. The music has damaged information, swept awards, and fueled a sold-out international tour. At a time when many collaborations fade inside weeks, “Luther” has confirmed it has endurance, incomes 5× Platinum certification and holding the Billboard Scorching 100’s No. 1 spot for 13 consecutive weeks.
However this isn’t nearly numbers. It’s about two of probably the most impactful artists of their technology pushing artistic boundaries—collectively.
From Studio to Historical past Books: The Rise of “Luther”
“Luther” debuted as a part of Kendrick Lamar’s 2024 album GNX, and it didn’t take lengthy to catch fireplace. The observe blends emotionally uncooked vocals from SZA with Kendrick’s razor-sharp lyrical supply. The manufacturing is equally layered, rooted in neo-soul, hip-hop, and basic R&B stylings.
Followers immediately related with its message of vulnerability, identification, and resilience—core themes in each artists’ discographies. Critics praised its storytelling and musical association, noting how the observe speaks to generational struggles and therapeutic with out preaching.
What occurred subsequent was unprecedented: the music started climbing the charts sooner than any Kendrick-SZA launch earlier than.
Billboard Scorching 100: A 13-Week Reign
“Luther” started modestly on the Billboard Scorching 100, debuting within the high 10. However because of viral social media buzz, playlist placement, and big streaming numbers, the observe hit No. 1 by March 1, 2025.
It stayed there for 13 consecutive weeks.
For perspective, that form of chart dominance is uncommon. Only some songs within the final decade—like “Previous City Highway” and “As It Was”—have reached that degree of longevity. For Kendrick and SZA, it marks the longest-running No. 1 of their careers. It’s additionally a benchmark of their style, which historically sees shorter stays on the high in comparison with pop.
World Chart Success
The observe didn’t simply rule within the U.S. In New Zealand, it debuted at No. 1 and returned to the highest spot after Kendrick’s Tremendous Bowl LIX halftime efficiency. Within the UK, Canada, Germany, and South Africa, “Luther” persistently stayed within the high 10 all through spring 2025.
This worldwide acclaim highlights how common the music’s message is—and the way Lamar and SZA’s affect reaches far past American borders.
Licensed 5× Platinum: What That Actually Means
Over the weekend, “Luther” achieved 5× Platinum eligibility. In RIAA phrases, that’s 5 million models offered—together with digital downloads and streaming equivalents. However the certification is about greater than gross sales; it’s a sign of cultural impression.
Only a few hip-hop and R&B collaborations have reached this milestone. Songs like “Empire State of Thoughts” by Jay-Z and Alicia Keys or “Love the Manner You Lie” by Eminem and Rihanna come to thoughts. “Luther” now belongs in that elite tier.
This degree of success additionally cements SZA as a streaming powerhouse and Kendrick as a continued business drive, even deep into his already legendary profession.
BET Awards 2025: Finest Collaboration Win
Final week, “Luther” took dwelling Finest Collaboration on the 2025 BET Awards. The second was a celebration not simply of the music, however of what it represents—Black excellence, artistic synergy, and highly effective storytelling.
The BET Awards are recognized for honoring genuine artistry and cultural contribution. This win additional validates Kendrick and SZA’s skill to make significant, related music in an period the place many hits are fleeting.
The efficiency that evening was extensively praised as the most effective of the night—minimalist but emotionally charged, with Kendrick and SZA feeding off one another’s vitality.
The Grand Nationwide Tour: A Shared Victory Lap
The Grand Nationwide Tour kicked off in mid-April 2025, with over 35 North American stops together with main cities like Los Angeles, Atlanta, Toronto, and Chicago. It wraps up this week in Washington, D.C., on June 18.
On July 2, the tour picks up once more in Cologne, Germany, for the beginning of the UK and European leg, with reveals in cities like Paris, Amsterdam, Glasgow, and London. It’s anticipated to proceed by mid-August.
What makes the tour particular?
- Twin headline format: SZA and Kendrick alternate lead roles relying on the evening.
- Shared staging and visuals: Impressed by the 1987 Buick Grand Nationwide (the namesake of the tour) and Kendrick’s Tremendous Bowl visuals.
- Fan-first setlists: Together with hits like “Luther,” “All of the Stars,” “The Weekend,” and “Alright.”
Fan reactions throughout TikTok and YouTube have been glowing, calling it “the most effective hip-hop reveals in years” and “a masterclass in stagecraft and emotional efficiency.”
Why Collaborations Matter in 2025
Music collaborations aren’t new—however the most effective ones right this moment mirror extra than simply enterprise offers. They mirror belief, imaginative and prescient, and narrative alignment. Kendrick and SZA don’t simply share a label; they share a worldview.
In a crowded digital music panorama, collabs like “Luther” minimize by the noise. They’re strategic however natural, pushed by mutual respect relatively than chart technique alone.
This makes their joint initiatives really feel genuine—one thing that resonates deeply with followers, particularly those that worth substance in an period of virality.
