Kendrick Lamar Overtakes Jay-Z as Most-Awarded Rapper in Grammys History

The rapper wins big at the 68th Grammy Awards ceremony.

Feb. 1, 2026 at 11:31pm

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In a historic moment at the 68th Grammy Awards, Kendrick Lamar surpassed Jay-Z as the most-awarded rapper in Grammys history. The achievement came less than half an hour into the ceremony, as Lamar continued to rack up accolades for his acclaimed work.

Why it matters

Kendrick Lamar's record-breaking Grammys success cements his status as one of the most influential and acclaimed rappers of his generation. His ability to consistently produce critically lauded albums and singles has solidified his place among the all-time greats in hip-hop.

The details

Lamar won several awards early in the Grammys telecast, including Best Rap Performance and Best Rap Song, pushing his career total to 32 Grammy wins. This surpassed Jay-Z's previous record of 31 Grammy wins, cementing Lamar's legacy as the most-awarded rapper in the history of the prestigious music awards show.

  • The 68th Grammy Awards ceremony took place on February 2, 2026.

The players

Kendrick Lamar

An acclaimed rapper and songwriter who has won multiple Grammy Awards over the course of his career.

Jay-Z

A legendary rapper and record executive who previously held the record for most Grammy wins by a rapper.

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What they’re saying

“Kendrick Lamar's continued dominance at the Grammys is a testament to his artistry and the impact he's had on the rap genre.”

— Music Critic

What’s next

Lamar is expected to continue his Grammy success in the coming years, as he remains one of the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful rappers in the music industry.

The takeaway

Kendrick Lamar's historic Grammys achievement solidifies his place among the greatest rappers of all time and underscores the enduring power of his artistry and influence within the music industry.