Could Kendrick Lamar & SZA Dethrone Ja Rule & Ashanti as the Greatest Rapper/Singer Duo Ever? Fat Joe Says ‘1 Million Percent’ Yes

Fat Joe has boldly declared that Kendrick Lamar and SZA have surpassed Ja Rule and Ashanti as the greatest rapper/singer duo in music history. Appearing on his podcast Joe and Jada, Fat Joe emphasized, “I was there last week. I’ve never seen nothing like that… It’s a fact. Kendrick Lamar gets played nine out of every 10 songs in L.A. right now. Not even Snoop Dogg, not even Tupac Shakur — nobody from L.A. has dominated the paint like this guy…”

Their collaboration, “Luther,” has been a massive success, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for 13 consecutive weeks. The song, a contemporary R&B and hip-hop love ballad, features Lamar and SZA’s vocal harmonies against 808 drums, hi-hats, and an orchestral arrangement. Its lyrics are about imagining a better future for one’s loved ones.

Additionally, the duo is currently co-headlining the Grand National Tour, which commenced on April 19, 2025, and is scheduled to conclude on August 9, 2025. The tour has been a commercial success, with their performance at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, grossing $11.822 million, setting a new record for the highest-grossing concert by a Black male artist as headliner or co-headliner.

While Ja Rule and Ashanti were known for hits like “Always On Time” and “Mesmerize,” the dynamic between Kendrick Lamar and SZA has resonated with contemporary audiences, blending introspective lyricism with soulful melodies. Their chemistry has been evident in their live performances and chart-topping collaborations.

As both artists continue to shape the musical landscape, their partnership stands as a testament to the evolving nature of hip-hop and R&B collaborations.