Kendrick Lamar has etched his name into the record books by becoming the most awarded rapper in Grammy history.
At the 68th Annual Grammy Awards, held on February 1, 2026, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, Lamar secured multiple wins that pushed his career total to 26 Grammy Awards, surpassing Jay-Z’s 25 and Kanye West’s 24.
The rapper’s latest triumphs included Best Rap Album for GNX, Best Rap Song for TV Off, and Record of the Year for Luther, his soulful duet with SZA. These victories revealed his dominance in contemporary hip-hop and cemented his reputation as one of the genre’s most influential voices.
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In his acceptance speech, Lamar reflected on his artistry and the cultural significance of hip-hop.
“It is hip-hop as usual, man. I’m not good at talking about myself, but I express it through the music. It’s an honor to be here,” he told the audience.
He also paid tribute to soul legend Luther Vandross, whose vocals were sampled on Luther, noting the emotional impact of receiving permission to use the late singer’s work.
Lamar entered the ceremony with nine nominations, the highest of any artist this year, and his wins reinforced his standing as a creative force who blends commercial success with socially conscious storytelling. His record-breaking achievement follows a career already marked by milestones, including his 2018 Pulitzer Prize for Music, which made him the first hip-hop artist to receive that honor.
Fans and critics alike hailed the moment as a defining one for rap, celebrating Lamar’s ability to elevate the genre while remaining true to its roots. His success also reignited discussions about the Grammys’ evolving relationship with hip-hop, a genre that has often been overlooked in top categories despite its global influence.
With this historic accomplishment, Kendrick Lamar has not only surpassed his peers but also set a new benchmark for excellence in rap, reaffirming his place as a cultural icon and one of the most important voices in modern music.
