Origins of the Beef
Both Kendrick Lamar and Drake achieved mainstream fame around the same time in the early 2010s. They collaborated on each other’s albums, with Lamar featuring on Drake’s Take Care (2011) and Drake appearing on Lamar’s Good Kid, M.A.A.D City (2012). However, tensions began to surface around 2013 when Lamar called out Drake and other rappers on Big Sean’s track “Control.” Drake initially avoided engaging in the feud, focusing instead on his beef with Meek Mill in 2015 and later with Pusha T in 2018.
Recent Escalation
The recent drama began with Drake’s song “First Person Shooter,” released as part of his album For All the Dogs in October. In the track, guest artist J. Cole referred to Lamar, Drake, and himself as the “big three.” Lamar responded by ripping into Cole and Drake on Future’s “Like That” in March. The tension continued to build until it reached a boiling point in May 2024.
Diss Tracks
Over the weekend, both artists released scathing diss tracks filled with allegations of pedophilia, domestic abuse, body modifications, and parentage. Drake denied Lamar’s claims about him having a secret child and engaging in inappropriate relationships with underage girls. Lamar, in turn, fired back with more accusations.
Kendrick’s disses have been undeniably more popular with the public. Between his catchy songs like “Not Like Us” and “Euphoria” and his more serious track “Meet The Grahams,” Kendrick has Drake in a corner.
Legacy and Impact
This feud is the latest chapter in a long tradition of rap rivalries, reminiscent of past conflicts like Jay-Z vs. Nas and Tupac vs. Biggie. The unverified claims and intense exchanges have captivated fans and changed the rules of engagement in hip-hop.
While the beef between Kendrick Lamar and Drake continues, fans eagerly await the next move from these two rap giants. It is currently at a stall due to the shooting at Drake’s mansion. The beef is undeniably entertaning, but it’s important to remember that we don’t know the rappers involved. We shouldn’t idolize either of them.
