Kendrick Lamar Makes History: First Rapper to Have 3 Albums in Billboard Top 10 Simultaneously

Kendrick Lamar has once again solidified his legacy in the music industry, achieving a historic milestone following his Super Bowl halftime performance. The Grammy-winning rapper has become the first rap artist ever to have three albums charting in the Billboard 200’s Top 10 simultaneously. This extraordinary feat showcases his lasting impact on hip-hop and proves why he remains one of the most influential artists of his generation.

Kendrick Lamar’s Albums Dominate the Billboard 200 Chart

On the Billboard 200 chart dated February 22, reflecting sales from the week ending February 13, Kendrick Lamar’s latest album, GNX, returned to the No. 1 spot. His critically acclaimed 2017 album DAMN. landed at No. 9, while his classic 2012 release good kid, m.A.A.d city claimed the No. 10 spot.

This historic feat makes Kendrick Lamar the first living male artist to accomplish such a milestone since Herb Alpert in 1966. The only other artist to achieve this in recent times was Taylor Swift, who impressively held five albums in the Top 10 in 2023. Additionally, following Prince’s passing in 2016, the late music icon also had three albums in the Top 10, and later expanded to five the following week.

Sales Figures Reflect Kendrick Lamar’s Unmatched Influence

During this charting period, Kendrick Lamar’s three albums saw significant sales and streaming numbers:

• GNX: 236,000 equivalent album units

• DAMN.: 39,000 equivalent album units

• good kid, m.A.A.d city: 37,000 equivalent album units

These numbers highlight the continued popularity of Lamar’s music, even for albums that were released over a decade ago.

Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl Performance Sparks Chart Resurgence

A key factor in Lamar’s chart dominance is undoubtedly his memorable Super Bowl halftime performance, which was one of the most talked-about moments of the event. Featuring appearances from SZA, Mustard, Serena Williams, and Samuel L. Jackson, the show attracted a staggering 133.5 million viewers, further boosting interest in his discography.

The impact of the Super Bowl performance is evident in the streaming surge and album sales increase, proving that Lamar’s music continues to resonate with audiences across generations.

Kendrick Lamar’s ‘Not Like Us’ Gains Pop Culture Recognition

Adding to his post-Super Bowl success, Lamar’s hit single “Not Like Us” gained further cultural relevance when it was featured in a Saturday Night Live sketch. During SNL’s 50th-anniversary special, actors Will Ferrell and Ana Gasteyer revived their classic music teacher characters, Marty and Bobbi Culp, to deliver an unexpected yet hilarious cover of “Not Like Us”.

Ferrell introduced the song with a lighthearted jab at Lamar and his longtime rival Drake, stating:

“Are Kenny Lamar and Drake Graham in the house? Maybe you two can hug it out tonight in the name of love and fellowship. No? Not in hell. Message received.”

The duo’s comedic rendition included Ferrell quoting the controversial line: “Certified Lover Boy? Certified pedophile,” which originally appeared in Lamar’s diss track against Drake. The sketch added another viral moment to Lamar’s post-Super Bowl success, keeping him in the media spotlight.

Additionally, the performance featured a cameo from Lamar’s former TDE labelmate, Doechii, who contributed to a cover of “Denial is a River” from her Grammy-winning mixtape Alligator Bites Never Heal.

Kendrick Lamar’s Legacy as One of the Greatest Artists of All Time

Kendrick Lamar’s ability to continuously dominate the charts years after an album’s release is a testament to his longevity and cultural impact. Few artists in the history of hip-hop, or even the music industry as a whole, have managed to maintain such widespread influence for over a decade.

Some key reasons why Kendrick Lamar remains at the pinnacle of the music industry:

• Lyrical Brilliance: Lamar’s storytelling ability, introspective lyrics, and thought-provoking messages set him apart from his peers.

• Cultural Impact: His music addresses social justice, politics, and personal struggles, making him a voice for a generation.

• Commercial Success: Multiple Grammy Awards, chart-topping albums, and record-breaking sales prove his mass appeal.

• Consistency: Unlike many artists who peak early and fade away, Kendrick continues to evolve and push boundaries.

His latest milestone with three albums in the Billboard Top 10 at once is another accolade that solidifies his place among the greatest rappers of all time.

Kendrick Lamar’s Influence on Hip-Hop

Kendrick Lamar’s career has been marked by groundbreaking albums, social commentary, and artistic evolution. Each of his releases has left an undeniable mark on hip-hop culture:

• good kid, m.A.A.d city (2012) – A coming-of-age classic, often considered one of the greatest rap albums ever.

• To Pimp a Butterfly (2015) – A jazz-infused political statement, tackling racial injustice.

• DAMN (2017) – Won a Pulitzer Prize, proving hip-hop’s literary and cultural importance.

• Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers (2022) – A deeply personal and introspective project.

• GNX (2024) – His latest masterpiece, reinforcing his dominance in the rap game.

With three albums in the Top 10, Kendrick Lamar proves that his music continues to be timeless, relevant, and powerful.

What’s Next for Kendrick Lamar?

With GNX returning to No. 1, rumors are swirling about Lamar’s next musical move. Will he surprise fans with a new album in 2025? Or will he focus on expanding his creative projects beyond music? 

With Kendrick Lamar’s record-breaking Billboard success, fans are speculating about what’s next for the Compton-born rapper. Regardless of what’s next, one thing is clear: Kendrick Lamar isn’t just a rapper—he’s a cultural icon whose influence continues to grow.

As fans eagerly await his next move, one question remains: Is there anyone in hip-hop today who can match Kendrick Lamar’s level of artistry and success? 

Final Thoughts

From chart dominance to historic performances and even SNL parodies, Kendrick Lamar continues to prove why he’s a hip-hop legend. His ability to captivate audiences, push boundaries, and redefine the genre has made him one of the most respected and influential artists of this generation.

With three albums in the Billboard Top 10, Kendrick Lamar has achieved a feat no other rapper has accomplished. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering his music, one thing is clear: Kendrick Lamar is a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.