Drake and Kendrick Lamar will forever be linked.

In what has become a legendary rivalry for the ages, Drake and Kendrick Lamar have both achieved an incredible milestone on Spotify in 2025. According to the streaming platform, they are the first two rappers to reach one billion streams in the new year.

Drake accomplished this feat in just 27 days, while Kendrick Lamar followed closely behind, reaching one billion streams in 29 days. Both artists have managed this achievement without releasing any new albums in 2025, proving their lasting impact and massive fanbase.

While the two have been friends-turned-rivals over the years, their shared success only highlights their strikingly similar legacies. As they continue to outshine one another in different ways, it’s clear that both Kendrick Lamar and Drake are set to leave an indelible mark on the rap game for generations to come.

Drake and Kendrick Lamar Tough One Billion Streams In 2025 Already

The first two rappers to earn 1 BILLION streams on Spotify in 2025 ?

?? #1 — Drake (~27 days)
?? #2 — Kendrick Lamar (~29 days) pic.twitter.com/OiCFxcIMKs

— Kurrco (@Kurrco) January 30, 2025

Imagine if prime Michael Jordan and prime Kobe Bryant were in the league at the same time—basketball fans would have witnessed something legendary. Well, that’s essentially what’s happening in hip-hop right now with Drake and Kendrick Lamar, and it feels like we’re not giving it the attention it deserves. Both artists are racking up monumental numbers, solidifying their places in music history. It’s unfortunate, but I hope they can proudly say they truly dominated the game when they look back on this era in their later years.

Quincy

Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.