
Who is the Biggest Hip-hop Star in the World?
Today, you’ll find out who the biggest hip-hop star in the world is, and discover his journey to the top from humble beginnings.
Hip-hop is more than music. It’s a movement, a way of life, and a voice for the people. For many years now, we have seen many hip-hop stars rise and fall.
While, some started from humble beginnings. Others had to fight for every second of attention. But in 2025, one name stands taller than the rest. His voice is loud, his lyrics hit hard, and more importantly, his message reaches across the world.
So, Who is the Biggest Hip-hop Star right now?
The answer is Kendrick Lamar.
Let’s break it down and find out why Kendrick holds this title.
A Long Road to the Top

First, we must look at Kendrick’s journey. Look at his past, he didn’t just wake up one day and become the biggest star. This means that, he worked very hard, wrote deep lyrics, and told stories that mattered.
Actually, Kendrick Lamar was born in Compton, California, a place known for its rich hip-hop history.
Growing up, he watched rap legends like Tupac and Dr. Dre. But, instead of just copying them, Kendrick made his own style.
Then, by the time his album good kid, m.A.A.d city came out in 2012, people already saw something special.
Remarkably, he wasn’t just rhyming words in the album, but was telling real stories, painting pictures with his lyrics. From that point on, he never looked back. Each album after that was bigger, bolder, and deeper.
Albums That Changed the Game
Kendrick has released multiple albums that not only topped the charts but also sparked conversations. Albums like To Pimp a Butterfly and DAMN. explored topics like race, pain, love, and hope.
Moreover, people across the world connected with his music. In fact, DAMN. won a Pulitzer Prize for Music in 2018, which is something no other rapper had done before.
Eventually, then came Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers. This album opened up discussions about mental health, fatherhood, and forgiveness. With this particular album, Kendrick did not just make music.

He made people think. And that is one reason Who is the Biggest Hip-hop Star question often leads to one answer — Kendrick Lamar.
The Power of His Lyrics
Secondly, Kendrick uses his voice in a unique way. Most rappers focus on parties, money, or fame, while Kendrick talks about real issues. Furthermore, he speaks on things that hurt, that heal, and that inspire. He uses his platform to educate people.
Through his songs, he sheds light on topics like depression, police violence, and community struggles.
More to this, his song Alright became a chant at protests. His diss track Not Like Us, released in 2024, dominated the music world. Anyway, it wasn’t just about beef. It was about claiming respect and calling out fakeness in the industry.
Kendrick vs. the Competition
Now, let’s be real. There are other big stars in hip-hop. Drake is a hitmaker with global reach. J. Cole writes thoughtful lyrics and has millions of fans.
Travis Scott sells out stadiums and breaks streaming records. Even newer names like Lil Baby and Ice Spice are rising fast.
Still, in 2025, Kendrick has something they don’t. He has balance. He blends popularity with purpose. He is both a chart-topper and a truth-teller.
Definitely, that’s why more and more people say Kendrick is the one. When fans, critics, and even rivals talk about Who is the Biggest Hip-hop Star, Kendrick’s name always comes up first.
Breaking Records and Winning Awards
Lamar isn’t just loved by fans. Award shows recognize his greatness, too. In 2025, he led the BET Awards with ten nominations. His album GNX was praised by critics.
Also, his song Not Like Us became a Grammy-winning track. These wins were not just for show. They proved he’s at the top of his game.
Even more, Kendrick performed at the Super Bowl halftime show in 2025. This was a massive moment. No solo hip-hop act had ever headlined that stage alone. His performance made history. Millions watched. Millions were impressed.
Streaming Numbers Don’t Lie
In our world today, music lives online. Streaming numbers are a big deal. They show how much people actually listen to your songs.
Kendrick’s Spotify numbers in 2025 were jaw-dropping with over 3.37 billion streams. That’s only slightly behind Drake’s 3.38 billion.
Clearly, this shows that fans are not just listening to Kendrick once. They’re hungry for more and keep coming back again and again. This is because, His music sticks. His lyrics last. His voice stays in your head.
Also, this is another clear reason why people keep asking Who is the Biggest Hip-hop Star — and the answer keeps pointing to Kendrick.
Global Love and Respect
Lamar is not only big in America. He’s loved around the world. He sells out shows in Europe, Africa, Asia, and South America. More so, he connects with people from all backgrounds. His message is universal.
Notably, during interviews, fans from Nigeria to Japan say the same thing:
“Kendrick speaks the truth.”
That level of respect is hard to earn. He doesn’t need gimmicks. He just tells stories that matter. Whether it’s a kid in Chicago or a student in Ghana, people understand Kendrick.
Influence on the Next Generation
Hip-hop is always growing. New artists are watching the greats. And many of them look up to Kendrick.
Additionally, young rappers say his music taught them to care more about lyrics. While, others say he inspired them to speak boldly and tell real stories.
Without a doubt, Kendrick is already shaping the future of rap. His influence can be seen in new music every day. Artists now know that you can be smart, deep, and still cool. You don’t have to follow trends. You can lead them.
So, Who is the Biggest Hip-hop Star?
Let’s bring it all together. Kendrick Lamar’s talent is unmatched. His lyrics hit hard. His albums win awards. His streaming numbers prove his popularity. His performances are unforgettable. And his message speaks to the heart. For this reason, it’s clear who the Biggest Hip-hop Star is.
He’s not just a rapper. He’s a leader. He’s a storyteller. He’s a force that keeps pushing hip-hop forward. And in 2025, no one else matches his level of greatness.
We should never forget that Kendrick Lamar earned his place through hard work, truth, and passion. He didn’t take shortcuts. He didn’t change to fit in.
Instead, he made the world change for him. He took the pain of his past and turned it into powerful music. Now, he stands at the top.
With that said, when next time someone asks, Who is the Biggest Hip-hop Star, you’ll know exactly what to say.
Kendrick Lamar — the voice of a generation.