Kendrick Lamar and SZA are the duo we have always needed.

These two musical geniuses have built a creative partnership that feels bigger than one song, and “luther” is the latest proof. The Video of the Year race at the 2026 BET Awards is crowded with entries from Ella Mai, Doechii, Mariah the Scientist, Tyla, Teyana Taylor, Kehlani, and T.I., but Kendrick and SZA’s collaboration enters the conversation with the kind of momentum that makes them look like the winners already.

On paper, “luther” has the cleanest path to the trophy because it has already collected serious awards-season receipts. The song won Record of the Year at the 2026 Grammys and took home Outstanding Music Video/Visual Album at the NAACP Image Awards, which only strengthens its case as a visual and sonic standout.  

Part of the magic is the chemistry. The official “luther” video, directed by Karena Evans and released in April 2025 through pgLang, gives the pair a sleek, moody visual world that matches the record’s emotional pull. A brilliant song deserves a brilliant visual.

At the 2025 BET Awards, Kendrick and SZA won Best Collaboration for “luther,” giving the pair a built-in awards glow heading into this year’s race. “luther” has gained a new breath of life with this prolific video. If voters lean toward the video with the strongest combination of prestige, familiarity, and instant classic value, “luther” looks ready to keep its crown.