Grammy 2026: Kendrick Lamar beats Jay-Z’s record to become the most-awarded rapper in Grammy history

Music's biggest night is here! The Grammy Awards are known for surprises, emotional speeches and big wins, but this year, history was made in a way hip-hop fans will remember for a long time. As the 68th Annual Grammy Awards is unfolding in Los Angeles, one artist quietly but firmly rewrote the record books. By the end of the night, Kendrick Lamar had officially become the most-awarded rapper in Grammy history.

The 2026 Grammy Awards took place on February 1 at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, with comedian and television host Trevor Noah returning as the face of the ceremony.

Kendrick Lamar creates history at Grammy Awards 2026

Kendrick Lamar entered the night as one of the top contenders, leading the field with nine nominations. As the awards were announced, both during the pre-telecast and the main show, it became clear that the rapper was having an extraordinary night. With multiple wins, he increased his Grammy total to 26, surpassing Jay-Z’s long-standing record of 25 awards. Kanye West, who previously held the second spot, stands at 24 wins.



Kendrick's victories at the Grammy 2026 included Best Rap Album for GNX, Best Rap Song for TV Off, Best Melodic Rap Performance for Luther, and Best Rap Performance for his feature on Clipse’s Chains & Whips. These wins not only sealed his record-breaking status but also reaffirmed his consistency and impact in hip-hop over more than a decade.

Accepting the award for Best Rap Album, Kendrick Lamar kept his speech rooted in the culture that shaped him. He said that he isn’t someone who enjoys talking about himself, explaining that his music does the speaking for him.

Kendrick added that hip-hop will always remain strong and present, whether artists are performing on global stages or representing the culture with pride in formal suits. He thanked his peers and the community, and gave credit to faith, ending his speech with gratitude and love for everyone who supported him.

All you need to know about Kendrick's journey

Before this year, Lamar already had an impressive Grammy journey. He came into the 2026 ceremony with 22 wins and 57 nominations. Over the years, he has taken home Best Rap Album trophies for To Pimp a Butterfly, DAMN., and Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers. His rise has been marked not just by awards, but by albums that consistently spark conversations.


The 2026 Grammys also witnessed other major milestones. Bad Bunny created history by winning Album of the Year, marking a defining moment for Latin music on a global stage. Meanwhile, K-pop earned its first-ever Grammy win. Stay tuned!