Kendrick Lamar's Grammy Count: A Record-Breaking Run

When you talk about dominant forces in modern music, Kendrick Lamar's name quickly comes to mind. But how many Grammys does Kendrick Lamar actually have? The answer is an impressive 27 Grammy Awards, solidifying his status as the most awarded rapper in Grammy history.

How Did He Break the Record?

Lamar's record-breaking achievement was cemented at the 2026 Grammy Awards. He took home five awards that year, pushing him past Jay-Z's previous record of 25 wins. It's a testament to his consistent output of critically acclaimed and commercially successful music.

His Grammy journey began in 2015, with his first wins for "i" in the Best Rap Song and Best Rap Performance categories. Since then, he's accumulated accolades across various categories, showcasing his versatility and lyrical prowess. Think about his win for DAMN. in 2018, which wasn't just a Grammy success but also earned him a Pulitzer Prize for Music – a groundbreaking moment for a non-classical or jazz artist.

Key Grammy Wins Over the Years

Lamar's discography is littered with Grammy-winning tracks and albums. From his early breakthroughs to recent triumphs, his impact is undeniable. Here's a look at some of his notable wins:

Year Award Category Winning Work
2015 Best Rap Song, Best Rap Performance "i"
2018 Best Rap Album DAMN.
2023 Best Rap Album Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers
2025 Record of the Year "Not Like Us"
2026 Record of the Year, Best Melodic Rap Performance "Luther"

Any Grammy Snubs?

Even with such an impressive haul, it's worth noting that even a titan like Lamar has faced Grammy snubs. Remember the 2021 Grammy Awards? He was the most-nominated artist with eight nods, yet only secured one win for his contribution to the Black Panther soundtrack. This sparked conversations among fans and critics about hip-hop's recognition in broader, major categories. Despite these instances, his consistent success and record-breaking achievements cement his profound influence on the music industry.