The Kendrick Lamar Drake beef explained

Published March 23rd, 2024 - 12:02 GMT
Kendrick Lamar's rap beef saga with Drake and J. Cole, explained. (Shutterstock)
Kendrick Lamar's rap beef saga with Drake and J. Cole, explained. (Shutterstock)
Highlights
Kendrick Lamar seemingly throws shots at Drake, J. Cole on new track: What to know about the rap beef saga.

In the ever-evolving landscape of hip-hop, few things capture attention like a good old-fashioned rap beef.

The latest to hit the headlines involves none other than Kendrick Lamar, who has seemingly thrown shots at fellow rappers Drake and J. Cole in his new track. Here’s what you need to know about this lyrical skirmish.

Background: The tension between Kendrick Lamar and Drake isn’t new. It traces back to 2013 when Kendrick dropped a verse on the track “Control,” calling out several rappers, including Drake, which set the stage for a series of subliminal exchanges over the years.

The New Chapter: Kendrick’s latest feature on Metro Boomin and Future’s album “WE DON’T TRUST YOU” has reignited the flame. His verse on the track “Like That” is a direct confrontation, dismissing the notion that any of his contemporaries, specifically Drake and J. Cole, are on his level. Kendrick’s words are clear and unambiguous, a departure from the often subliminal nature of past exchanges.

The Verse: Without mincing words, Kendrick asserts his dominance in the rap game. He challenges the so-called “Big Three,” a term used to collectively describe Kendrick, Drake, and J. Cole, by declaring, “Motherf*ck the Big Three, it’s just big me.” This bold statement has been interpreted as a response to Drake’s recent collaboration with J. Cole, “First Person Shooter,” where they both allude to their supremacy in the rap world.

The Reaction: The internet has been abuzz with reactions to Kendrick’s verse. Fans and critics alike are dissecting every line, trying to unpack the full extent of the message he’s delivering.

The Significance: This beef is more than just a war of words; it’s a reflection of the competitive nature of the music industry, where artists continually vie for the top spot. 

As the story unfolds, fans are eagerly waiting to see if Drake or J. Cole will respond, turning the track into a new battleground for rap supremacy.

One thing is certain: the Kendrick Lamar/Drake beef is a fascinating chapter in the annals of hip-hop history, and it’s far from over.

Subscribe

Sign up to our newsletter for exclusive updates and enhanced content