Grammy 2025: Will Kendrick Lamar Win Best Rap Performance for Not Like Us?

Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” has become a cultural phenomenon, dominating airwaves and sparking conversations. But will its impact translate to Grammy gold? Specifically, will it secure the coveted Best Rap Performance award? The track’s provocative nature, aimed squarely at rival Drake, has generated both immense praise and controversy, making its chances at the 2025 Grammys a hot topic of debate.

A Career of Accolades and Controversy

Kendrick Lamar’s journey from Compton to global icon is a testament to his lyrical genius and innovative approach to hip-hop. From his early mixtapes to his Pulitzer Prize-winning album DAMN., Lamar has consistently pushed boundaries and challenged conventions. His career is studded with a dazzling array of awards, including 17 Grammys, solidifying his place as one of the most decorated rappers in history. However, “Not Like Us” presents a unique challenge. Its diss track nature, while not unprecedented in Grammy history, brings a layer of complexity to its consideration.

“Not Like Us”: A Diss Track for the Ages

“Not Like Us” emerged from a reignited feud with Drake, escalating a long-standing rivalry. The track’s pointed lyrics and unflinching critique of Drake’s character resonated with many, propelling it to the top of the charts. The song’s impact extends beyond its musicality, capturing a cultural moment and shifting the power dynamics within the hip-hop landscape. It’s a testament to Lamar’s lyrical prowess and his ability to weave intricate narratives within a diss track framework.

Can Lamar take home the Grammy for Best Rap Performance? The odds at 22bet21.com are quite high at 1.143/1 or 87.50%.

The Grammy Landscape: A Crowded Field

The Best Rap Performance category at the 2025 Grammys is fiercely competitive. Lamar’s “Not Like Us” faces off against a diverse range of artists, including established names like Cardi B and Eminem, as well as rising stars like Doechii and GloRilla. Even Lamar himself has another contender in the category with his feature on Future and Metro Boomin’s “Like That.” This crowded field makes predicting a winner challenging, even for a seasoned artist like Lamar.

The Case for “Not Like Us”

Despite the stiff competition, “Not Like Us” has several factors working in its favor. Its cultural impact is undeniable, sparking widespread discussion and debate. The song’s lyrical complexity and technical brilliance showcase Lamar’s mastery of the craft. Furthermore, the Recording Academy has historically recognized diss tracks, with previous nominations for songs like Drake’s “Back to Back” and LL Cool J’s “Mama Said Knock You Out.” This precedent suggests that a well-executed diss track can indeed earn Grammy recognition.

The Potential Roadblocks

While “Not Like Us” possesses undeniable strengths, its controversial nature could present challenges. The song’s explicit lyrics and personal attacks on Drake might alienate some voters. Furthermore, the Grammys have sometimes been criticized for overlooking more commercially successful tracks in favor of critically acclaimed but less popular choices. This dynamic could impact “Not Like Us,” despite its chart-topping success.

A Difficult Prediction

Predicting the winner of the Best Rap Performance category is a fool’s errand. The Grammy voters are notoriously unpredictable, and the competition is fierce. While “Not Like Us” has a strong case, its controversial nature adds an element of uncertainty. Ultimately, whether Lamar takes home the award will depend on the subjective preferences of the Grammy voters. Regardless of the outcome, “Not Like Us” has already cemented its place as a significant cultural moment in hip-hop history. Its impact transcends the Grammys, solidifying Lamar’s legacy as a fearless artist willing to push boundaries and challenge the status quo.