Kendrick Lamar and SZA have once again captivated the music world with their latest collaboration, "Luther," released on November 29, 2024. Serving as the second single from Lamar's sixth studio album, GNX, the track has quickly ascended the charts, securing the number one spot on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs as of January 4, 2025. citeturn0search12
"Luther" pays homage to the legendary R&B and soul singer Luther Vandross, with both artists drawing inspiration from his emotive style. The song was co-written by Lamar and SZA, alongside Atia Boggs and Sam Dew, and features production from a notable team including Sounwave, Jack Antonoff, Bridgeway, Kamasi Washington, M-Tech, and Rose Lilah. citeturn0search10
The track has been lauded for its seamless blend of Lamar's incisive lyricism and SZA's soulful vocals, creating a soundscape that resonates with both hip-hop and R&B audiences. Critics have highlighted the song's intricate production and the palpable chemistry between the two artists, noting it as a standout on the GNX album. citeturn0news19
In the wake of the song's success, Lamar and SZA have announced a co-headlining concert series, the Grand National Tour, set to commence on April 19, 2025, in Minneapolis. This tour marks the first all-stadium venture for both artists, with 23 shows scheduled across the United States and Canada. The tour's name and Lamar's album title, GNX, are inspired by the 1987 Buick Grand National Experimental, reflecting a thematic continuity in Lamar's recent work. citeturn0search13
The announcement of the Grand National Tour has generated significant excitement among fans and industry insiders alike. Pre-sale tickets, made available through the tour's sponsor Cash App and Ticketmaster's Official Platinum program, sold out rapidly, indicating the high demand for this powerhouse duo's live performances. citeturn0search13
As "Luther" continues to dominate the airwaves, both Lamar and SZA are receiving critical acclaim for their individual projects as well. Lamar's GNX album has been praised for its introspective themes and innovative production, marking a significant evolution in his artistic journey. Similarly, SZA's contributions to the album, along with her recent solo endeavors, have solidified her status as a leading figure in contemporary R&B. citeturn0news19
The collaboration on "Luther" is not the first between Lamar and SZA; their previous joint effort, "All the Stars," garnered critical acclaim and multiple award nominations, including an Oscar nod for Best Original Song. Their continued partnership showcases a dynamic synergy that resonates deeply with audiences and contributes significantly to the current musical landscape. citeturn0search11
As the music industry anticipates the upcoming Grammy Awards, both artists are expected to be strong contenders, with "Luther" and GNX likely to receive multiple nominations. Their innovative contributions continue to push the boundaries of their respective genres, and their forthcoming tour is poised to be one of the most talked-about events of 2025.
In summary, "Luther" stands as a testament to Kendrick Lamar and SZA's artistic prowess and their ability to create music that resonates across diverse audiences. With a chart-topping single, a highly anticipated tour, and critical acclaim for their recent projects, both artists are solidifying their positions at the forefront of the music industry.
For those interested in experiencing "Luther," the official audio is available on YouTube:
videoKendrick Lamar - luther (Official Audio)turn0search0
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