Kendrick Lamar Dominates 2025 BET Awards with Album of the Year Win for GNX

Los Angeles, CA – June 10, 2025 – Kendrick Lamar solidified his status as a hip-hop titan at the 2025 BET Awards, held at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, taking home the coveted Album of the Year award for his critically acclaimed project GNX. The Compton-born rapper, already a dominant force in the music industry, further cemented his legacy by securing five awards during the star-studded ceremony, bringing his career total to an unprecedented 42 BET Award wins, the most of any artist in the event’s history.

Lamar’s GNX, a masterful blend of introspective lyricism, cultural commentary, and genre-defying production, was lauded by critics and fans alike upon its release. The album, which explores themes of identity, legacy, and resilience, resonated deeply with audiences, making it a standout choice for Album of the Year. The win was one of several for Lamar, who also claimed Best Male Hip-Hop Artist, Video of the Year for his chart-topping single “Not Like Us,” Best Collaboration for “Luther” featuring SZA, and Video Director of the Year alongside his longtime creative partner Dave Free.

The 2025 BET Awards, hosted by Fat Joe, celebrated Black excellence in music, film, sports, and philanthropy, with performances and appearances from some of the biggest names in entertainment. However, Lamar’s commanding presence and multiple victories made him the undeniable highlight of the evening. His wins underscored his influence not only as a rapper but as a cultural icon whose work continues to shape the landscape of hip-hop.

“Not Like Us,” a cultural phenomenon and one of the year’s most impactful diss tracks, earned Lamar the Video of the Year award for its bold visuals and unapologetic messaging. The track, widely seen as a lyrical triumph in his ongoing rivalry with Drake, became an anthem, dominating airwaves and social media platforms like X. The video’s direction, a collaborative effort with Dave Free, also contributed to their shared win for Video Director of the Year, highlighting Lamar’s multifaceted artistry.

The collaboration with SZA on “Luther,” a soulful and introspective track from GNX, secured the Best Collaboration award, showcasing the chemistry between the two TDE artists. Their work together was praised for its emotional depth and seamless blending of hip-hop and R&B, further elevating the album’s impact.

Lamar’s sweep at the 2025 BET Awards adds to an already illustrious career. With 17 Grammy Awards, a Pulitzer Prize for his 2017 album DAMN., and now a record-breaking 42 BET Awards, Lamar continues to set the bar for artistic excellence. His ability to address systemic issues, personal struggles, and cultural narratives through his music has earned him a devoted following and critical acclaim across the globe.

The BET Awards, now in its 25th year, remains a cornerstone of Black cultural celebration, honoring achievements across various fields. This year’s ceremony featured electrifying performances from artists like GloRilla, Megan Thee Stallion, and Childish Gambino, alongside heartfelt tributes to icons like Usher, who received the BET Lifetime Achievement Award. However, it was Lamar’s night to shine, as he walked away with the most accolades and reaffirmed his place at the forefront of hip-hop.

Posts on X reflected the excitement surrounding Lamar’s wins, with fans and commentators praising his artistry and cultural impact. “Kendrick Lamar is untouchable. GNX is a masterpiece, and the BET Awards just proved it,” one user wrote. Another posted, “Five awards in one night? K. Dot is the GOAT, no debate.” The sentiment online echoed the energy in the Peacock Theater, where Lamar’s peers and fans celebrated his achievements.

As Kendrick Lamar continues to push boundaries with his music and storytelling, his 2025 BET Awards performance serves as a reminder of his unparalleled influence. GNX not only secured Album of the Year but also set a new standard for what hip-hop can achieve. With the world watching, Lamar remains a visionary artist whose work transcends music, leaving an indelible mark on culture and history.