Kendrick Lamar continues his dominant run.

According to Forbes’ 2025 Highest-Paid Artists ranking, Kendrick Lamar lands at No. 4 overall, pulling in an impressive $109 million this year. The milestone places him ahead of longtime rival Drake, who ranks No. 7 with $78 million, marking a notable shift in hip-hop’s financial hierarchy.

The top of the list is led by The Weeknd, who dominates at $298 million, followed by Taylor Swift at $202 million and Beyoncé at $149 million. Kendrick’s position among these global superstars reflects not only his commercial power but also the massive cultural impact he’s had throughout 2025.

Last year was a banner year for Kendrick. Between a chart-topping album, headline-making performances, a record-breaking tour run with SZA, and nonstop cultural conversation, his earning power has matched his artistic momentum. Kendrick has always prioritized quality over quantity, and this ranking shows that strategy continues to pay off significantly.

Drake, meanwhile, remains one of the highest-earning artists in the world, but Kendrick’s financial success adds another layer to their long-standing competitive narrative. With artists like Coldplay and Shakira tied just behind Kendrick at $105 million, it’s clear that 2025 has been a year where touring, longevity, and cultural relevance mattered more than ever.

Ileyah

Ileyah is a mom, a writer and a musician. She loves late nights and gluten free snacks.