The year 2024 witnessed a seismic shift in the hip-hop landscape, largely fueled by the intense rivalry between Kendrick Lamar and Drake. As their feud escalated, music fans worldwide became engrossed in the lyrical battle, eager to see who would claim supremacy. Among the barrage of diss tracks, Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” emerged as a definitive victor, solidifying its place as one of the top songs of 2024. Released swiftly after “Meet the Grahams,” “Not Like Us” delivered a powerful blow, blending scathing accusations with undeniable entertainment value, instantly capturing the cultural zeitgeist.
“Not Like Us”: The Anthem of a Generation
“Not Like Us” resonated deeply with audiences due to its relentless character assassination of Drake, hitting raw nerves with lines like the now-infamous “and it’s probably A minorrrrr.” The track addressed serious allegations (which Drake has denied), contributing to its controversial yet captivating nature. Beyond the lyrical content, the infectious production by Mustard was crucial to its widespread appeal. The song’s signature booming bassline, sharp snares, and rhythmic finger snaps created a quintessential West Coast vibe, transforming it into an instant anthem.
This infectious energy propelled “Not Like Us” beyond the confines of the hip-hop world. It quickly became a staple in diverse settings, from nightclubs and summer cookouts to sporting arenas and even bar mitzvahs. The song’s ubiquity was further cemented by Lamar himself, who performed it repeatedly at his “The Pop Out: Ken & Friends” Juneteenth concert, underscoring its significance as a victory anthem in his feud with Drake. Its broad appeal and cultural impact are key reasons why “Not Like Us” is considered one of the top songs of 2024.
Chart-Topping Success and Critical Acclaim
The triumph of “Not Like Us” extended beyond cultural impact to achieve remarkable commercial success. The track soared to the top of the Billboard Hot 100, securing Lamar his fourth No. 1 hit. It further dominated the Hot Rap Songs chart, breaking records by maintaining the No. 1 position for an unprecedented 25 weeks, a testament to its enduring popularity. Looking ahead to the 2025 Grammy Awards, “Not Like Us” has garnered five nominations, including the prestigious Record and Song of the Year categories, signaling potential further accolades. There’s even speculation about a Super Bowl performance, which would further cement its status as a monumental track.
In conclusion, Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” is more than just a diss track; it’s a cultural phenomenon and one of the defining top songs of 2024. Its potent combination of impactful lyrics, an irresistible beat, and widespread cultural adoption, coupled with its chart-topping success and critical recognition, firmly establishes its place as a dominant force in the music landscape of the year.
