Kendrick Lamar has done it again. The Grammy-winning rapper and cultural icon took home one of the night’s most coveted honors, winning Record of the Year for his groundbreaking track “NOT LIKE US” at the 2025 GRAMMYs. The achievement marks yet another milestone in Lamar’s legendary career and solidifies his place as one of the most influential artists of his generation.
The moment was one of the most anticipated of the evening, with fans and industry insiders alike eagerly awaiting to see if Lamar’s innovative sound and thought-provoking lyricism would land him this major accolade. And when his name was called, the energy in the room was electric. As Lamar walked up to accept the award, his characteristic coolness and humility radiated through.
A Powerful Acceptance Speech
“First, I want to thank the people,” Lamar began, looking out at the crowd. “The ones who stand by me, who believe in me when no one else did, and the ones who keep fighting for us even when the world says we’re not worth fighting for.”
Lamar continued, his voice steady but powerful. “This song—this record—it’s for the ones who feel invisible, for the voices that have been silenced. ‘NOT LIKE US’ is a reflection of the world we live in, the struggles we face, and the strength we find in each other. It’s for the marginalized, the misunderstood, and those who are told they’re not enough. It’s for us to remember our worth, to rise, and to break the chains that try to hold us down.”
He went on to thank his team, his family, and especially his fans, who have supported him throughout his career. “To my family, my collaborators, and the fans who continue to inspire me with their love and energy—I share this with you. You’re the ones who push me to create, to challenge the norm, and to make music that speaks for us all.”
Lamar closed his speech with a nod to the future. “This is just the beginning. We’ve got more work to do. Let’s keep fighting, let’s keep creating, and let’s keep raising our voices. Not like us—we’re not like what they say we are. We are something greater.”
A Historic Win for “NOT LIKE US”
“NOT LIKE US” has been one of the most talked-about songs of the year, with its raw, unapologetic lyrics and genre-blending production. The track addresses themes of identity, power, and societal division, all while pushing the boundaries of hip hop. Lamar’s ability to mix profound social commentary with catchy, innovative music has earned him praise from fans and critics alike, and the GRAMMY for Record of the Year is a testament to the track’s impact on the music industry.
The song’s success also marks a major achievement for Lamar, who has already been recognized by the GRAMMYs in multiple categories over the years. But this win for “NOT LIKE US” feels particularly significant, as it represents the culmination of Lamar’s continued evolution as an artist—a visionary who blends social consciousness with musical mastery.
A Night to Remember for Kendrick Lamar
The 2025 GRAMMYs were a night to remember for Kendrick Lamar, whose win for “NOT LIKE US” was a highlight of the evening. It wasn’t just about the award; it was about the message he’s been delivering through his music for years. As one of the most influential voices in hip-hop, Lamar has consistently used his platform to speak on social issues, challenge the status quo, and encourage listeners to think critically about the world around them.
This win is a reminder of Lamar’s unmatched artistry and his ability to connect with the world through his music. As he continues to break barriers and redefine the boundaries of hip-hop, it’s clear that Kendrick Lamar is far from finished.
At the end of the night, as Lamar walked off the stage, the crowd stood in awe—respecting not only his musical genius but the powerful voice he has become for an entire generation. The future is bright for Kendrick Lamar, and his GRAMMY-winning track “NOT LIKE US” will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the defining moments of the 2025 ceremony.
