Kendrick Lamar Takes Over the Grammys with “Not Like Us”: 5 Key Moments You Can’t Miss

A Historic Night for the West Coast

Kendrick Lamar made waves at the 2024 Grammy Awards with his explosive win for “Not Like Us,” taking home three major trophies in the hip-hop categories, alongside Record of the Year and Song of the Year. The night’s significance wasn’t just about the accolades; it was about the implications of this victory in the ongoing rap battle between Kendrick Lamar and Drake. Even though Drake was nowhere to be found at the event, his absence was felt, and this win for Kendrick Lamar may have stung even more knowing the rivalry between them.

The Breakthrough of “Not Like Us”

What made “Not Like Us” such a game-changer? For starters, it’s the first diss track in Grammy history to win Record of the Year. This was a remarkable achievement not only because of the track’s undeniable impact but also because it marked a new era for hip-hop at the Grammys. It wasn’t just another hit song; it was a statement. A statement that continues to have cultural ripple effects even months later. With Beyoncé winning Album of the Year, another artist of color making history, Kendrick’s success added fuel to the fire that the industry was ready for a new wave.

Kendrick Lamar’s Style & Shade

While Kendrick dazzled the Grammy stage with his signature energy and style, his appearance felt like more than just a celebration of his win. Kendrick Lamar walked the red carpet in denim, a deliberate departure from the usual tuxedos and designer outfits you often see at such high-profile events. It was a subtle jab at his rivals, particularly Drake, who has often been the subject of Kendrick’s lyrical barbs. Some saw his choice of outfit as a way of trolling Drake in anticipation of the upcoming Super Bowl. What better way to make a statement than by defying expectations, especially when you’re the one walking away with the trophies?

The Crowd’s Reaction

The night took an unexpected turn when the crowd began singing along to “Not Like Us”, creating a moment that couldn’t have been scripted better. When the crowd chanted “A Minoooor” in unison, it was clear that the cultural impact of Kendrick’s track was undeniable. There was no doubt that the crowd was deeply invested in the song’s success, with some even attributing the win to the power of the Kendrick Lamar army. The loud and proud chorus of fans had a message for anyone who doubted the staying power of Kendrick’s cultural influence: “Not Like Us” was here to stay.

Kendrick Shouts Out Whitney Alford

Another memorable moment came during Kendrick Lamar’s acceptance speech for Song of the Year, where he thanked his partner Whitney Alford. This shout-out was particularly significant, as it indirectly referenced Drake’s accusations involving Whitney. When Drake alleged that Whitney had cheated with Dave Free, Kendrick took to the stage to honor her with a nod to her role in his creative process, even referencing her “Crip-walking” in one of his music videos. It was a bold and pointed move, reminding everyone of the complex dynamics that have played out behind the scenes.

Jay-Z & Dr. Dre Mentions

At the heart of “Not Like Us” lies a deeper message about protecting women and children, but Kendrick Lamar also made sure to shout out the figures who’ve supported him throughout his career. Jay-Z and Dr. Dre, two giants of hip-hop, both got mentions in Kendrick’s speech. While it’s clear they’ve had an impact on his journey, their past controversies are also hard to ignore. Jay-Z, recently in the headlines due to a lawsuit involving sexual abuse allegations, and Dr. Dre, whose history with domestic violence remains part of his legacy, have both been in the spotlight for the wrong reasons. Kendrick Lamar’s decision to continue to honor them while highlighting issues of abuse might seem contradictory to some, but it’s a powerful reminder that even the most influential figures in hip-hop are not immune to scrutiny.

Taylor Swift’s Support

Perhaps the most unexpected twist of the night came in the form of Taylor Swift’s clear support for Kendrick Lamar. As Kendrick received his awards, Taylor Swift was seen cheering him on from the crowd. She even tweeted her support, calling Kendrick Lamar’s victory a “sweep” as she joined in the celebration. This moment, along with video footage of Swift dancing to “Not Like Us” during the ceremony, sent fans into a frenzy. It seems the divide between Drake and Swift has only deepened, with Taylor Swift choosing to stand by Kendrick instead of Drake. Was this a sign of shifting allegiances in the music industry? It certainly feels that way.

As Kendrick Lamar cements his legacy, the ripple effects of “Not Like Us” continue to reverberate. With new alliances, ongoing rivalries, and a track that has defined a moment in hip-hop history, 2024 is shaping up to be Kendrick Lamar’s year—and we’re just getting started.