By Abigael Gioche
Popular hip-hop artist, Kendrick Lamar secured the Album of the Year title at the 2025 BET Awards , for his latest project, GNX.
The project was recognized for its bold sonic direction and introspective themes.
While receiving his award, Lamar hailed the BET as a representative of the culture.
“BET has always made sure they’re representing the culture right and always put me in the midst of the cycle of what we represent,” Lamar said.
According to BET, the album isn’t easy listening. It’s dense, layered, and purposefully uncomfortable.
Further describing it as therapy, protest, and prophecy all wrapped into one, the album underscores Lamar’s music prowess.
Its recognition at the BET Awards underscores Lamar’s ability to balance mainstream appeal with deep, thought-provoking content.
Held at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on June 9, the BET Awards celebrated achievements across Black entertainment, with Lamar emerging as one of the night’s standout artists.
In addition to Album of the Year, he also took home Best Male Hip-Hop Artist and Video of the Year for “Not Like Us.”
Since his debut, Kendrick has been praised for elevating hip-hop beyond entertainment, utilizing his platform to challenge systems, reflect community struggles, and document personal growth.
GNX continues that tradition, positioning him both as a hit maker and a cultural storyteller.
Lamar’s success highlights a continued appetite for music that combines lyrical depth with innovation.
As one of the few artists consistently recognized for both commercial success and critical acclaim, Lamar’s presence at the BET Awards was a reminder of his lasting relevance, and of the genre’s potential as a tool for truth.
The win further cements his status as one of the most influential voices in contemporary music.