Kendrick Lamar Dominates: A Comprehensive Look at the Grammy Awards for Best Rap Song and Its Two-Decade Legacy
The Grammy Awards, often heralded as “Music’s Biggest Night,” annually honor the pinnacle of artistic achievement and technical prowess across the recording industry. Among its most dynamic and watched categories is Best Rap Song, a testament to hip-hop’s profound and undeniable global influence. On February 5, 2023, during the 65th Annual Grammy Awards, rap icon Kendrick Lamar added another prestigious accolade to his illustrious career, winning Best Rap Song for “The Heart Part 5.” This victory underscores not only his lyrical genius but also the enduring power and evolution of rap music.
Hip-hop has solidified its position as the most dominant music genre of the last half-century, eclipsing many predecessors to become a cultural cornerstone that profoundly shapes global trends. The genre’s architects and lyrical masterminds receive their well-deserved recognition at the annual Grammy Awards, particularly within the Best Rap Song category. Established in 1958 and originally known as the Gramophone Awards, the Grammys have evolved significantly, now celebrating “artistic achievement, technical proficiency, and overall excellence in the recording industry, without regard to album sales or chart position,” as stated on the Recording Academy’s official website.
However, the Grammys’ relationship with hip-hop has had its complexities and criticisms over the years. The Recording Academy introduced the Best Rap Performance award in 1989 and the Best Rap Album category in 1996, notably many years after hip-hop had already become a significant cultural force. It wasn’t until the 46th Grammy Awards in 2004 that the Best Rap Song category made its debut. Eminem, alongside co-writers Luis Restro and Jeff Bass, claimed that inaugural award for the iconic track “Lose Yourself.” This award, crucially, recognizes the songwriters behind a hit, acknowledging the collaborative effort and creative minds that craft the lyrics, melodies, and overall structure of a impactful rap song.
- The 65th Grammy Awards took place on February 5, 2023, celebrating the best in music from the past year.
- The Best Rap Song category featured an impressive roster of nominees, including industry heavyweights like Future, Drake, and the eventual winner, Kendrick Lamar.
- Kanye ‘Ye’ West and Jay-Z previously won Best Rap Song in 2022 for their collaboration, ‘Jail’.
- Kendrick Lamar’s triumph in 2023 for “The Heart Part 5” was announced during a pre-show ceremony, marking a significant moment for the acclaimed artist.
2023 Grammy Awards: Best Rap Song Nominees and Kendrick Lamar’s Victorious Return
The 2023 Best Rap Song category showcased a blend of established legends and rising stars, promising a fierce competition. The nominations included DJ Khaled‘s star-studded anthem “God Did,” featuring Rick Ross, Lil Wayne, Jay-Z, John Legend, and Fridayy, a track celebrated for its powerful verses and aspirational message. Kendrick Lamar‘s deeply introspective and lyrically complex “The Heart Part 5” also earned a nomination, captivating listeners with its profound storytelling and innovative visual. Another strong contender was “Pushin P” by Gunna and Future featuring Young Thug, which dominated airwaves with its infectious hook and cultural resonance.
Future notably received multiple nominations in this category, with his collaboration “Wait For You,” featuring Tems and Drake, also making the cut. This track highlighted Future’s versatility and ability to blend melodic rap with R&B sensibilities. Drake made another appearance on the nominations list for “Churchill Downs,” a powerful collaboration with Jack Harlow that garnered significant critical acclaim for its intricate wordplay and dynamic delivery.
Ultimately, in a non-broadcast pre-show ceremony, Kendrick Lamar was announced as the winner for “The Heart Part 5.” This win was part of a remarkable evening for Lamar, who also secured awards for Best Rap Performance and Best Melodic Rap Song, further solidifying his status as one of hip-hop’s most decorated artists.
Congrats Best Rap Song winner – “The Heart Part 5” Jake Kosich, Johnny Kosich, Kendrick Lamar & Matt Schaeffer, songwriters (@KendrickLamar) #GRAMMYs
🎶 WATCH NOW https://t.co/OuKk34l332— Recording Academy / GRAMMYs (@RecordingAcad) February 5, 2023
BEST RAP SONG 🏆 @kendricklamar #GRAMMYS pic.twitter.com/5bBwFiLLpQ
— Complex Music (@ComplexMusic) February 5, 2023
The full list of nominees for Best Rap Song at the 65th Grammy Awards:
- Jack Harlow ft. Drake, “Churchill Downs” (Songwriters: Ace G, BEDRM, Matthew Samuels, Tahrence Brown, Rogét Chahayed, Aubrey Graham, Jack Harlow, and Jose Velazquez)
- DJ Khaled featuring Rick Ross, Lil Wayne, Jay-Z, John Legend and Fridayy, “God Did” (Songwriters: Tarik Azzouz, E. Blackmon, Khaled Khaled, F. LeBlanc, Shawn Carter, John Stephens, Dwayne Carter, William Roberts and Nicholas Warwar)
- Kendrick Lamar, “The Heart Part 5” (Songwriters: Jake Kosich, Johnny Kosich, Kendrick Lamar and Matt Schaeffer)
- Gunna and Future featuring Young Thug, “Pushin P” (Songwriters: Lucas Depante, Nayvadius Wilburn, Sergio Kitchens, Wesley Tyler Glass and Jeffery Lamar Williams)
- Future featuring Drake and Tems, “Wait for U” (Songwriters: Tejiri Akpoghene, Floyd E. Bentley III, Jacob Canady, Isaac De Boni, Aubrey Graham, Israel Ayomide Fowobaje, Nayvadius Wilburn, Michael Mule, Oluwatoroti Oke and Temilade Openiyi)
Recent Winners Of The Grammy Award For Best Rap Song: A Retrospective
The Best Rap Song category has consistently highlighted the most innovative and impactful lyrical works in hip-hop. Over the past two decades, it has celebrated a diverse array of artists and tracks, reflecting the genre’s dynamic evolution. Below is a look at the winners and key nominees who have shaped this prestigious award.
2023: Kendrick Lamar, “The Heart Part 5”
Kendrick Lamar’s win for “The Heart Part 5” marks another pivotal moment in his career, celebrated for its intricate lyrical narrative and powerful social commentary. The song’s complex structure and thought-provoking themes resonated deeply with both critics and fans, earning it widespread acclaim.
Other notable nominees in 2023 included:
- Jack Harlow ft. Drake, “Churchill Downs”
- DJ Khaled featuring Rick Ross, Lil Wayne, Jay-Z, John Legend and Fridayy, “God Did”
- Gunna and Future featuring Young Thug, “Pushin P”
- Future featuring Drake and Tems, “Wait for U”
2022: Kanye West ft. Jay-Z, “Jail”
Kanye West and Jay-Z’s collaboration “Jail” brought together two of hip-hop’s titans, delivering a powerful and reflective track that resonated with the academy. The song’s profound lyrical content and the artists’ enduring chemistry were recognized with this significant win.
Other Nominees:
- DMX featuring Jay-Z and Nas, “Bath Salts”
- Saweetie featuring Doja Cat, “Best Friend”
- Baby Keem featuring Kendrick Lamar, “Family Ties”
- J. Cole featuring 21 Savage and Morray, “My Life”
2021: Megan Thee Stallion ft. Beyoncé, “Savage (Remix)”
The “Savage (Remix)” by Megan Thee Stallion and Beyoncé became a cultural phenomenon, embodying female empowerment and confidence. This win highlighted the track’s massive impact and its catchy, memorable lyrics that took the world by storm.
- Songwriters: Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Brittany Hazzard, Derrick Milano, Terius Nash, Megan Pete, Bobby Session Jr., Jordan Kyle Lanier Thorpe & Anthony White
Other Nominees:
- Lil Baby, “The Bigger Picture”
- Roddy Ricch, “The Box”
- Drake ft. Lil Durk, “Laugh Now Cry Later”
- DaBaby featuring Roddy Ricch, “Rockstar”
2020: 21 Savage ft. J. Cole, “A Lot”
“A Lot” demonstrated the lyrical prowess of 21 Savage and J. Cole, with its poignant storytelling and thought-provoking commentary on life and success. The win underscored the song’s critical acclaim and its impact within the rap community.
- Other Nominees:
- YBN Cordae featuring Chance the Rapper, “Bad Idea”
- Rick Ross featuring Drake, “Gold Roses”
- Nipsey Hussle featuring Roddy Ricch and Hit-Boy, “Racks In The Middle”
- DaBaby, “Suge”
2019: Drake, “God’s Plan”
Drake’s “God’s Plan” was a chart-topping sensation that also carried a strong philanthropic message through its iconic music video. This win celebrated its widespread popularity, catchy lyrics, and profound cultural impact.
- Other Nominees:
- Kendrick Lamar, Jay Rock, Future & James Blake “King’s Dead”
- Eminem featuring Joyner Lucas, “Lucky You”
- Travis Scott, Drake, Big Hawk & Swae Lee, “Sicko Mode”
- Jay Rock, “Win”
2018: Kendrick Lamar, “HUMBLE”
“HUMBLE” became an anthem of self-reflection and confidence, showcasing Kendrick Lamar’s distinctive style and lyrical genius. Its win was a recognition of its artistic depth and commercial success.
- Other Nominees:
- Cardi B, “Bodak Yellow”
- Danger Mouse featuring Run the Jewels and Big Boi, “Chase Me”
- Rapsody, “Sassy”
- Jay-Z, “The Story of O.J.”
2017: Drake, “Hotline Bling”
“Hotline Bling” was a defining track for Drake, known for its unique sound, viral dance moves, and relatable lyrics about modern relationships. Its Grammy win solidified its status as a pop culture phenomenon.
- Other Nominees:
- Fat Joe & Remy Ma featuring French Montana & Infared, “All The Way Up”
- Kanye West featuring Rihanna, “Famous”
- Chance the Rapper featuring Lil Wayne and 2 Chainz, “No Problem”
- Kanye West featuring Chance The Rapper, Kelly Price, Kirk Franklin & The-Dream, “Ultralight Beam”
2016: Kendrick Lamar, “Alright”
“Alright” emerged as a powerful protest anthem and a message of hope, resonating deeply within the social and political landscape of its time. Kendrick Lamar’s win for this track highlighted its profound impact and artistic excellence.
- Other Nominees:
- Kanye West Featuring Theophilus London, Allan Kingdom, and Paul McCartney, “All Day”
- Drake, “Energy”
- Common and John Legend, “Glory”
- Fetty Wap, “Trap Queen”
2015: Kendrick Lamar, “i”
Kendrick Lamar’s “i” was a vibrant and uplifting track that showcased his versatility and message of self-love. This win recognized its positive message and the unique musicality Lamar brought to the rap genre.
- Other Nominees:
- Nicki Minaj, “Anaconda”
- Kanye West featuring Charlie Wilson, “Bound 2”
- Wiz Khalifa, “We Dem Boyz”
- Drake, “0 to 100 / The Catch Up”
2014: Macklemore & Ryan Lewis ft. Wanz, “Thrift Shop”
“Thrift Shop” was a massive crossover hit that celebrated individuality and challenged consumer culture with its witty lyrics. The duo’s independent success and catchy, relatable storytelling were honored with this award.
- Other Nominees:
- ASAP Rocky featuring Drake, 2 Chainz, and Kendrick Lamar, “F-ckin’ Problems”
- Jay-Z featuring Justin Timberlake, “Holy Grail”
- Kanye West, “New Slaves”
- Drake, “Started from the Bottom”
2013: Jay-Z and Kanye West, “N—– In Paris”
From their groundbreaking album “Watch the Throne,” “N—– In Paris” became an iconic anthem, known for its bold lyrics and undeniable energy. This collaboration between two of rap’s biggest names exemplified their influence and artistic synergy.
- Other Nominees:
- Nas, “Daughters”
- Wale featuring Miguel, “Lotus Flower Bomb”
- Kanye West, Big Sean, Pusha T, and 2 Chainz, “Mercy”
- Drake featuring Lil Wayne and Tyga, “The Motto”
- Snoop Dogg and Wiz Khalifa featuring Bruno Mars, “Young, Wild & Free”
2012: Kanye West, Rihanna, Kid Cudi & Fergie, “All of the Lights”
“All of the Lights” was a monumental track featuring a star-studded lineup, celebrated for its grandiose production and intricate lyrical contributions from multiple artists. It was a highlight from Kanye West’s critically acclaimed album, “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy.”
- Other Nominees:
- Wiz Khalifa, “Black and Yellow”
- Dr. Dre, Eminem, and Skylar Grey, “I Need A Doctor”
- Chris Brown, Busta Rhymes and Lil Wayne, “Look At Me Now”
- Jay-Z and Kanye West, “Otis”
- Lupe Fiasco, “The Show Goes On”
2011: Jay-Z ft. Alicia Keys, “Empire State of Mind”
“Empire State of Mind” became an iconic anthem for New York City, blending Jay-Z’s powerful rap verses with Alicia Keys’ soulful vocals. Its widespread appeal and evocative lyrics earned it this well-deserved award.
- Other Nominees:
- Eminem featuring Rihanna, “Love The Way You Lie”
- Eminem, “Not Afraid”
- B.o.B featuring Bruno Mars, “Nothin’ On You”
- Jay-Z & Swizz Beats, “On to the Next One”
2010: Jay-Z ft. Rihanna and Kanye West, “Run This Town”
“Run This Town” brought together three musical powerhouses, creating a chart-topping track that exuded confidence and ambition. This win underscored the song’s strong production and the collaborative strength of its artists.
- Other Nominees:
- Drake, “Best I Ever Had”
- Kid Cudi, “Day ‘n’ Nite”
- T.I. featuring Justin Timberlake, “Dead and Gone”
- Jay-Z, “D.O.A. (Death of Auto-Tune”)
2009: Lil Wayne ft. Static Major, “Lollipop”
“Lollipop” was a defining track for Lil Wayne, showcasing his distinctive vocal delivery and catchy melodies, which propelled him to superstardom. Its commercial success and unique sound made it a memorable winner.
- Other Nominees:
- Flo Rida featuring T-Pain, “Low”
- Snoop Dogg, “Sexual Eruption”
- Lupe Fiasco featuring Soundtrak, “Superstar”
- T.I. featuring Jay-Z, Lil Wayne, Kanye West & M.I.A., “Swagga Like Us”
2008: Kanye West ft. T-Pain, “Good Life”
“Good Life” was a feel-good anthem from Kanye West, celebrating success and optimism with T-Pain’s signature auto-tuned vocals. It captured the zeitgeist of aspirational living and became a commercial and critical favorite.
- Other Nominees:
- 50 Cent ft. Justin Timberlake, “Ayo Technology”
- T.I., “Big Things Poppin’ (Do It)”
- Kanye West, “Can’t Tell Me Nothing”
- Soulja Boy, “Crank That”
2007: Ludacris ft. Pharrell, “Money Maker”
“Money Maker” was a high-energy collaboration that showcased Ludacris’s charismatic flow and Pharrell’s distinct production. The track’s infectious beat and confident lyrics secured its place as a Grammy winner.
- Other Nominees:
- Yung Joc, “It’s Goin’ Down”
- Lupe Fiasco, “Kick, Push”
- Chamillionaire, “Ridin’”
- T.I. “What You Know”
2006: Kanye West, “Diamonds from Sierra Leone”
“Diamonds from Sierra Leone” was a profound track that delved into social commentary while maintaining a luxurious sound. Kanye West’s lyrical depth and innovative production were recognized with this important award.
- Other Nominees:
- 50 Cent featuring Olivia, “Candy Shop”
- The Black Eyed Peas, “Don’t Phunk With My Heart”
- The Game featuring 50 Cent, “Hate It Or Love It”
- Missy Elliott featuring Ciara and Fatman Scoop, “Lose Control”
2005: Kanye West, “Jesus Walks”
“Jesus Walks” was a groundbreaking track that boldly merged spiritual themes with mainstream hip-hop, showcasing Kanye West’s innovative approach to songwriting. This early win cemented his reputation as a visionary artist.
- Other Nominees:
- Snoop Dogg and Pharrell, “Drop It Like It’s Hot”
- The Black Eyed Peas, “Hey Mama”
- The Black Eyed Peas, “Let’s Get It Started”
- Jay-Z – “99 Problems”
2004: Eminem, “Lose Yourself”
The inaugural winner of Best Rap Song, Eminem’s “Lose Yourself” from the movie “8 Mile” became an instant classic, renowned for its intense lyrics, powerful narrative, and motivational message. This monumental win set a high bar for the category, celebrating a song that transcended genres and became a cultural touchstone.
- Other Nominees:
- Snoop Dogg and Pharrell, “Beautiful”
- Jay-Z and Pharrell, “Excuse Me Miss”
- 50 Cent, “In da Club”
- Missy Elliott, “Work It”