2025 GRAMMYs: Kendrick Lamar Dedicates Record Of The Year Win to Los Angeles
The 2025 GRAMMY Awards were a night of musical triumphs, emotional tributes, and hometown pride. Among the evening’s most talked-about moments was Kendrick Lamar’s win for Record Of The Year—a victory that felt as much for Los Angeles as it was for him.
Taking the stage at Crypto.com Arena, the Compton-born rap icon accepted the golden gramophone for "Not Like Us," a track that transcended its origins as a diss record to become an anthem for the city of angels. It was more than just a song; it was a statement, a cultural movement, and an explosive moment in hip-hop history.
With his signature humility and intensity, Lamar dedicated his win to the people and streets that shaped him.
A Love Letter to L.A.
"We gon’ dedicate this one to the city," Lamar said, his voice steady but filled with emotion. As he stood under the stage lights, he called out the places that had raised him: Compton, Watts, Long Beach, Inglewood, and more. But his tribute didn’t stop there. In a moment that spoke to the unity of the city, he also acknowledged neighborhoods like Palisades and Altadena, showing that L.A. is bigger than just its well-known streets—it’s about the people, the culture, and the shared struggles and victories.
"I can’t give enough thanks to these places that I rolled around since high school, and most importantly the people and the families out in Palisades and Altadena," he continued. "This is a true testament that we will continue to restore this city."
Lamar has always represented Los Angeles in its rawest, most authentic form—not just its glitz and glamour, but its history, pain, resilience, and triumphs. His music has long captured the soul of the city, painting pictures of its struggles and celebrations through lyrical mastery and profound storytelling.
A Night of Emotion and Reflection
While the moment was one of joy, Lamar also took a moment to acknowledge personal loss. He revealed that his aunt had passed away just a day before the ceremony.
"She probably watching from up there, make sure y’all got y’all best smiles on, make her feel good," he said, a poignant reminder that even in victory, life’s losses weigh heavy.
The moment added a layer of rawness and sincerity to his acceptance speech, showing once again why Lamar is not just an artist but a poet of the people.
Kendrick Lamar's Full Grammy Speech
The Power of "Not Like Us"
"Not Like Us" was more than just a chart-topping diss track—it was an anthem. Produced by Mustard, the song became an explosive cultural moment, turning into a rallying cry for L.A. and an unforgettable chapter in hip-hop history.
The track, which emerged as part of a heated lyrical feud between Lamar and Drake, dominated airwaves, club speakers, and social media. It was the song that fans couldn’t stop playing, dissecting, and debating. It wasn’t just a diss—it was a celebration of West Coast pride, resilience, and legacy.
The GRAMMYs recognized its impact in full force, awarding "Not Like Us" a total of four awards throughout the night:
- Best Rap Performance
- Best Rap Song
- Best Music Video
- Record Of The Year
When Mustard, the song’s producer, took the stage alongside Lamar, he kept his message short but powerful:
"I ain’t got nothing to say but WEST SIDE!"
It was a mic-drop moment, summing up the unbreakable spirit of Los Angeles in just a few words.
Kendrick Lamar’s Legacy at the GRAMMYs
With this win, Lamar further cemented his status as one of the most decorated artists in GRAMMY history. A 57-time nominee, he has already taken home some of the most prestigious awards in music, including:
- Best Rap Album for To Pimp A Butterfly
- Best Rap Song for "Alright"
- Best Rap Performance for "Alright"
Now, with "Not Like Us", he adds Record Of The Year to his collection—one of the most coveted awards of the night.
His competition for the honor was fierce, with nominees including The Beatles, Beyoncé, Sabrina Carpenter, Charli XCX, Billie Eilish, Chappell Roan, and Taylor Swift. The award was presented by last year’s winner, Miley Cyrus, who had won for "Flowers".
An Unforgettable GRAMMYs Moment
In an evening packed with stellar performances and emotional wins, Kendrick Lamar’s dedication to his city stood out. It was a moment of gratitude, reflection, and West Coast pride—one that resonated far beyond the walls of the Crypto.com Arena.
As Lamar left the stage, one thing was clear: this wasn’t just a win for him—it was a win for Los Angeles, for hip-hop, and for everyone who has ever seen themselves in his music.
And as Mustard so perfectly put it:
"WEST SIDE!"
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