Kendrick Lamar Dominates the 2025 VMAs with 10 Nominations — A Testament to His Timeless Reign

When it comes to excellence in hip hop, Kendrick Lamar continues to operate in a lane of his own. As the MTV Video Music Awards light up tonight, all eyes are on Compton’s crown jewel, who leads all hip-hop artists with a staggering 10 nominations, solidifying his place at the peak of the culture — yet again.

From Video of the Year to Artist of the Year, Kendrick’s artistic vision is being recognized on every major front. The nominations span his critically acclaimed visuals, flawless performances, and his ability to thread together storytelling and activism in a way only he can. His standout project, The Heart Part 6, alongside visuals for Mirrors and GOLDEN RULE, have resonated with fans and critics alike, blending cinematic brilliance with lyrical depth.

What’s more impressive is that Kendrick is sharing the spotlight with pop and R&B heavyweights like Lady Gaga (12 nominations), Bruno Mars (11), and Doja Cat (9) — yet still remains a central figure in every major category.

This isn’t just a victory lap. It’s a reminder that even in an era of fast trends and viral hits, Kendrick’s ability to deliver timeless work is unmatched. His nominations cover everything from Best Hip-Hop to Best Direction, proving he’s not just a rapper — he’s a full-scale creative force.

As fans wait to see how many trophies he’ll take home tonight, one thing is certain: Kendrick Lamar isn’t just part of the conversation — he is the conversation.

Image: Kendrick Lamar at Øyafestivalen 2013 by Jørund Føreland Pedersen is licensed under CC BY 3.0