Kendrick Lamar unexpectedly omitted “Not Like Us,” which was a 2024 major hit, from his sixth studio album, GNX. Thanks to Terrence “Punch” Henderson, we now have a better understanding of the reason behind this. On Monday, 3 February, Top Dawg Entertainment’s president encapsulated the issue in a single word: “integrity”.

On Top Dawg Entertainment’s historic evening, which saw Doechii achieve the milestone of becoming the third woman to win Best Rap Album and SZA claim Best R&B Song, Punch paused to address questions from fans. Someone inquired, “Could you provide some insight for us on why Dot didn’t include the mega smash on the album?”

He retorted, “Integrity.” The record was set during the battle. The album was a distinct entity. It was decided not to add it to the list, potentially to enhance overall sales, but instead it remained unchanged.

If “Not Like Us” had been included on the GNX album, it would have further contributed to the LP’s enormous commercial success. In the end, the project made its debut at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, selling 319,000 album-equivalent units. The diss track’s success on Spotify exceeded 1 billion streams by January, following a period where it had occupied the top spot on the Hot 100 for two separate weeks the year before.

Integrity. That record was for the battle. The album was a separate thing. Could have put it on there to boost overall sales but choose to leave it for what it was. Integrity.

— Punch TDE (@iamstillpunch) February 4, 2025

On the night of Sunday, February 2, “Not Like Us” garnered five Grammy Awards for Best Music Video, Best Rap Song, Best Rap Performance, Record of the Year and Song of the Year. In a full-circle moment, Lamar acknowledged Punch with a shout-out as he accepted the award in question.

As my friend Punch advises, I want to encourage the young artists to appreciate and respect the art form. “Thank you,” the Compton native said to the crowd. Embracing the art form will ultimately lead you to your desired destination. I appreciate your acknowledgement. I’m fond of all of you.

Lamar is scheduled to headline the Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show at New Orleans’ Caesars Superdome on February 9. Following this, SZA and he will embark on their highly anticipated “Grand National Tour” in April.