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Is Kendrick Lamar paving the way for future diss tracks? With his latest single "Not Like Us" making history, the answer seems to be an emphatic yes. The track has just crossed a staggering 1 billion streams on Spotify, marking it as the first diss track ever to reach this milestone. Released on May 4, 2024, this explosive track not only topped the Billboard Hot 100 but also shattered numerous streaming records, challenging the traditional narratives of hip-hop music and culture.
During its meteoric rise, "Not Like Us" achieved the biggest single-day streaming numbers for a hip-hop song, surpassing records previously held by major artists like Drake and Lil Baby. This unprecedented success highlights Kendrick Lamar's undeniable influence in the rap scene, prompting discussions about the future of hip-hop and the art of diss tracks.
To put this achievement into perspective, let's compare the time it took for various hip-hop songs to reach 1 billion streams:
| Song | Artist(s) | Days to Reach 1 Billion Streams |
|---|---|---|
| Industry Baby | Lil Nas X & Jack Harlow | 191 days |
| God’s Plan | Drake | 226 days |
| Rockstar | Post Malone ft. 21 Savage | 234 days |
| Not Like Us | Kendrick Lamar | 249 days |
| Paint The Town Red | Doja Cat | 272 days |
| The Box | Roddy Ricch | 303 days |
| ROCKSTAR | DaBaby ft. Roddy Ricch | 308 days |
The controversies surrounding the song only add to its allure. Legal disputes have erupted, with Drake's company Frozen Moments LLC filing a petition against Universal Music Group (UMG). The allegations claim that UMG employed unethical practices like bots and pay-to-play agreements to artificially inflate the song's popularity. In response, UMG has vehemently denied these claims, maintaining their dedication to ethical marketing practices and reaffirming the song's authenticity.
The inflated streaming numbers resulting from the ongoing drama are remarkable as well. Since the legal actions began, sales of "Not Like Us" increased by 440%, and the track saw a 20% boost in streams. As tensions rise and fans continue to stream the track in record numbers, it becomes clear that Kendrick Lamar's influence on hip-hop culture remains unshakeable.
As we look ahead, Lamar's achievements with "Not Like Us" challenge established norms in hip-hop. His lyrical genius, coupled with the thriving digital landscape of streaming services, sets the stage for future diss tracks that may follow in his groundbreaking footsteps. With Kendrick's latest work, it’s not just about the music; it’s about the conversations and controversies that come with it, leaving fans and critics alike on the edge of their seats.
In conclusion, as Kendrick Lamar continues to dominate the hip-hop landscape with "Not Like Us" and its historic achievements, we are reminded of the evolving nature of the genre. The trajectory of this song signifies a shifting paradigm in how artists approach diss tracks and their potential impact. Will more diss tracks follow in Lamar's wake? Only time will tell.
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