American rapper Kendrick Lamar has achieved yet another milestone, being named the “Greatest Pop Star” of 2024 by Billboard. This recognition marks a significant moment in his illustrious career, highlighting his dominance on the charts and his influence on the global music scene throughout the year.
Kendrick Lamar’s remarkable run on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2024 was fueled in part by a highly publicized hip-hop feud with Canadian rapper Drake. The rivalry, which captured the attention of fans and critics alike, led Lamar to release a series of chart-topping tracks, including his number-one hit single, “Not Like Us.” The song became an anthem, solidifying his status as a powerhouse in the industry.
This achievement makes Kendrick Lamar the first rapper to be named Billboard’s Greatest Pop Star of the Year since Drake received the honor in 2018. The accolade underscores Lamar’s versatility as an artist and his ability to transcend genres, blending elements of hip-hop and pop to create music that resonates with a broad audience.
While Lamar celebrated his triumph, another significant chart milestone was achieved by music legend Mariah Carey. Her iconic holiday classic, “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” has now tied two other tracks as the longest-running number-one song in Billboard Hot 100 chart history. With 17 weeks at the top, Carey’s festive anthem stands shoulder to shoulder with Lil Nas X’s “Old Town Road” and Shaboozey’s “A Bar Song (Tipsy).”
This historic achievement also highlights a notable cultural moment: all three of these record-breaking songs are led by Black artists. The success of these tracks showcases the profound influence of Black artistry on the music industry and its ability to shape global pop culture.
Kendrick Lamar’s recognition as the Greatest Pop Star of 2024 is a testament to his relentless creativity and ability to connect with fans through his storytelling and lyrical prowess. Throughout the year, Lamar consistently pushed boundaries, delivering music that was not only commercially successful but also critically acclaimed. His work this year reflects a balance between artistic integrity and mainstream appeal, a rare combination that few artists achieve.
The rivalry with Drake, though contentious, proved to be a catalyst for Lamar’s incredible output in 2024. The competition pushed both artists to new heights, resulting in some of the year’s most memorable music. While Lamar’s “Not Like Us” became a standout hit, Drake also released tracks that kept fans engaged and the rivalry alive. This dynamic underscored the competitive yet collaborative spirit of hip-hop, a genre that thrives on innovation and reinvention.
Mariah Carey’s enduring success with “All I Want for Christmas Is You” serves as a reminder of the timeless appeal of great music. Originally released in 1994, the song continues to captivate listeners three decades later, becoming a staple of holiday celebrations around the world. Its longevity on the charts is a testament to Carey’s unmatched vocal talent and the universal joy the song brings to audiences of all ages.
The shared achievements of Kendrick Lamar, Mariah Carey, Lil Nas X, and Shaboozey illustrate the diversity and richness of Black artistry in contemporary music. These artists, each in their own way, have broken barriers and set new standards of excellence, inspiring a new generation of musicians to dream big and aim high.
Kendrick Lamar’s rise to the top in 2024 is also a reflection of his evolution as an artist. From his groundbreaking debut to his current status as a cultural icon, Lamar has consistently used his platform to address social issues, challenge norms, and celebrate his heritage. His ability to weave complex narratives into his music has earned him a loyal fan base and critical acclaim, solidifying his place among the greatest artists of his generation.
As Billboard’s Greatest Pop Star of 2024, Kendrick Lamar joins an elite group of artists who have shaped the music industry and left an indelible mark on popular culture. This honor is not just a recognition of his success in 2024 but also a celebration of his contributions to the music industry over the years.
Mariah Carey’s continued dominance with “All I Want for Christmas Is You” and the record-breaking achievements of Lil Nas X and Shaboozey highlight the power of music to bring people together and create lasting memories. These songs, each unique in their own right, demonstrate the universal appeal of great music and its ability to transcend time and trends.
As the music industry looks ahead to 2025, the achievements of Kendrick Lamar, Mariah Carey, and their peers serve as a reminder of the importance of innovation, authenticity, and artistry. Whether through chart-topping hits, timeless classics, or groundbreaking records, these artists have set a high bar for what is possible in music.
Kendrick Lamar’s recognition as Billboard’s Greatest Pop Star of 2024 is a fitting tribute to a year marked by creativity, competition, and cultural impact. As he continues to push the boundaries of his craft, fans and critics alike can look forward to what the future holds for this extraordinary artist.
