Drake Archives - Page 22 of 287

Kendrick Lamar’s ‘Not Like Us’ Video Has Forced The LA Public Library To ‘Retire’ One Of Its Beloved Children’s Puppets

July 6, 2024 by newhiphopnews

According to the “Not Like Us” opening disclaimer: “No Ovohoes were harmed during the making of the music video.” However, Kendrick Lamar vicious beating of an owl piñata (symbolic of Drake) in the visual has other entities hiding anything that resembles the animal.

Yesterday (July 5), the Los Angeles Public Library decided to retire its beloved owl puppet used for children’s programming. “Do we need to retire our owl puppet,” asked the page.

@lapubliclibrary

#librarytok #librarytiktok #lapl #lapubliclibrary

♬ original sound – Los Angeles Public Library

Whether the act was for the safety of the plushie or to show the library’s allegiance to hometown hero, Kendrick, the public showed just how tickled they were in the comment section of the TikTok video.

“Wow, the library was really the last safe space,” joked one user.

LA Public Library Kendrick Drake TikTok Comment 07062024 — TikTok

“Drake just cancelled his library card,” wrote another user.

“The library said, ‘You think the Bay gon let you disrespect Pac, brother,’” penned another referencing a line in the track.

“I’m HOOTING at this. Perhaps, the owl can do some community service and earn their way back. Or be used in the Halloween display,” chimed another.

At this point, there is nothing Drake or his OVO Sound record label can do about the degradation of its logo. But it will be a while before fans are spotted sporting anything in the bird family.

DJ Akademiks Claims That The Drake Stimulus Package Is Dead

July 5, 2024 by newhiphopnews

DJ Akademiks has been riding for Drake for years. He’s the rapper’s biggest fan in terms of notable media personalities. That being said, Ak has faced up to some harsh truths over the last few weeks. He fears that the Kendrick Lamar battle may have permanently impacted Drake’s career. Not only in terms of reputation, which has certainly been the case, but in sales as well. The 6 God spent a decade and a half with the Midas touch, but DJ Akademiks think the era of the “Drake Stimulus Package” is over.

Ak did a live stream reaction to the music video for Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us.” He admitted the video was highly memorable, but it was the song’s continued chart success that led to a more serious discussion. “Not Like Us” peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot 100, and it’s still at number three. Conversely, Drake’s last few releases have underperformed, and DJ Akademiks has noticed. “Drake’s wings, slightly, feel clipped,” he noted. “The Drake Stimulus Package right now, doesn’t exist. Drake going on Camila Cabello’s track didn’t do nothing.”

DJ Akademiks Admitted That Drake’s New Song Flopped

“The Drake stimulus package right now doesn’t exist”

— Akademiks pic.twitter.com/zbDlDmZQH4

— Kurrco (@Kurrco) July 5, 2024

DJ Akademiks is not wrong. Drake and Camila Cabello hyped up their duet “Hot Uptown” for months. It was positively received by fans and critics, but it also tanked on the charts. It debuted at number 92 on the Billboard Hot 100, which is unheard of for a high-profile Drake collab. “U My Everything,” the Drake and Sexyy Red song, didn’t fare much better. The song, which sampled “BBL Drizzy,” peaked at number 44. Drake and Red’s previous collab, “Rich Baby Daddy,” peaked at number 11 by comparison. That’s an enormous downshift.

DJ Akademiks also gave Kendrick Lamar his flowers after watching the “Not Like Us” video. “He did give everybody a look,” he wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “Pretty good video ngl.” Ak also recognized how big the video and the song are for hip-hop culture. “First music video people have cared about in a while.. good job Kendrick Lamar.” The internet personality even conceded that Lamar’s decision to have his fiancee, Whitney Alford, in the video, stepped on Drake’s “Family Matters” claims. “Whitney dancing and clowning Drake is hilarious lol,” he tweeted.

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Drake Could Deliver A Surprise Performance At Essence Festival 2024, According To Birdman

July 5, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Yesterday (July 4), Kendrick Lamar dropped the official music video for chart-topping diss track, “Not Like Us.” But if you thought for a second, Drake would duck and hide until things died down, you might just end up with egg on your face.

One of the culture’s biggest annual events, Essence Festival, could be the “First Person Shooter” rapper’s ticket back into the public’s good graces. Well, Birdman surely thinks so. Starting tonight (July 5), the festival’s evening concert series will spotlight some of music’s biggest names with a heavy emphasis on New Orleans natives.

In an exclusive chat with People, Birdman teased that not only will his performance later commemorate the 30th anniversary of Cash Money Records, but he has several surprise guests lined up, which could very well include Drake.

“Everybody you’re thinking of as far as Cash Money [will be there],” he said. “A lot of people that started with me when we was young in the game. It’s going to be a great night.”

Although Drake has his own record label, OVO Sound, he owes his start in music to Lil Wayne’s Young Money Records imprint and, by extension, Birdman. With Lil Wayne’s heart set on headlining Super Bowl 2025 in New Orleans, this could be an epic bounce back for Drake from rap’s most talked about beef.

Rick Ross Is Actually Amused After Seemingly Being Attacked By Drake Fans In Canada

July 5, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Rick Ross One Fest 2022 — Getty Image / Paras Griffin

Kendrick Lamar took a few hefty swings at Drake’s OVO Sound’s mascot in the “Not Like Us” video. But last month (June 30), it appears Drake fans decided to throw a few punches of their own—at Drizzy’s foe Rick Ross.

While performing in Montreal, the “Champagne Moments” rapper and his crew were seemingly rushed after playing the chart-topping Kendrick track. Yesterday (July 4), Ross finally issued a response to the brawl.

“Aye man, I’m thinking about the event that happened over there,” he said. “When the first dude stepped up to Rozay, the lil’ short fat one that looked like Bam Bam Bigelow from wrestling. When he stepped up, I squatted down, and his eyes had told him what I said. Basically, ‘Boy, if I hit you, imma see everything you ate for the last two days.’ His balls dropped out of his ass. He never said another word, he did never did nothing. He was a straight busta. Then the n**** behind him said, ‘I know MMA!’ And then I got hit with a drink. I’m still convinced ain’t no n**** punched me. Somebody said, ‘Rozay, the n**** tried to punch you, he hit you!.’ I said, ‘Nah, he had to throw a drink.’ ‘Cause throwing a drink would have been way more disrespectful than screaming, ‘I know MMA!’”

Typically, being attacked would rattle anyone. But not in Ross’ case. In fact, he seemed amused more so than anything else.

Watch the full video below.

Rick Ross speaks out on the Vancouver situation! pic.twitter.com/dYz53D2wyo

— The Art Of Dialogue (@ArtOfDialogue_) July 4, 2024

Social Media Reacts To Kendrick Lamar’s Fiancé Whitney Alford Being In “Not Like Us” Video

July 4, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Whitney Alford appears in the “Not Like Us” video, and fans are here for it. Social media is claiming that Kendrick Lamar has once again, taken home the victory in regards to the Drake beef. For Kendrick, he’s proven that he’s not just a lyricist, but he’s also a visual storyteller. Since the debut of his new music video, “Not Like Us,” today, social media has been on fire with reactions. People are loving it. While the hip-hop beef has been going on for the last few months, listeners have been taking sides and waiting to see what comes next. In fact, now that the music video is here, fans are meticulously analyzing each moment and detail of the video. Each frame is receiving thorough attention and scrutiny from viewers worldwide.

One of the most striking elements of the video is the appearance of his fiancée, Whitney Alford, alongside their children. This visual representation serves as a direct response to recent claims made by Drake in his diss track “Family Matters,” where he took aim at Lamar’s relationship with Alford. In “Family Matters,” Drake made several accusations about Lamar’s family life. He suggested issues between Lamar and Alford that painted Lamar in a negative light. However, Lamar’s “Not Like Us” video flips this narrative on its head. Furthermore, the video showcases Lamar and Alford dancing together with their children. This scene not only completely rebuttals Drake’s insinuations but also reinforces the two’s dynamic of a happy family.

Fans Are Happy To See Whitney Alford In Video

Social media reactions to the video have been supportive of Lamar’s portrayal. Many fans have highlighted the contrast between Drake’s accusations and the wholesome depiction of Lamar’s family in “Not Like Us.” One commenter noted, “Kendrick’s family is so cute ,” capturing the sentiment echoed by many who appreciate the authenticity and positivity showcased in the video. The significance of Alford’s presence cannot be overstated. By appearing in the video, Alford sends a clear message of support and unity.

Furthermore, this stands in stark contrast to Drake’s accusations. What do you guys think? Is this a deliberate move by Lamar to address any misconceptions about his personal life? Have you got a chance to see the “Not Like Us” video? Is there any way Drake could respond from this? Share your thoughts on HNHH!

Whitney crip walking all over Drake grave pic.twitter.com/KRIedCQHM8

— chröłłö (@qcarterxx) July 4, 2024

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Kendrick Lamar Caged An Owl And Danced On Drake’s Metaphorical Grave All Around Compton For His ‘Not Like Us’ Video

July 4, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Call off the fireworks. No pyrotechnic comes close to the combustibility of Kendrick Lamar’s newly released “Not Like Us” video. Directed by Lamar and Dave Free, the six-minute video incorporates many of the Los Angeles legends present at Lamar’s The Pop Out — Ken & Friends Juneteenth concert. Within thirty seconds, Tommy The Clown asks Lamar, “What’s the password?” Lamar whispers, “I see dead people.” And we’re off.

“Wop, wop, wop, wop, wop, Dot, f*ck ’em up” was previously celebrated for the exquisite Amazon Prime Video camerawork when Lamar delivered the bar during The Pop Out, but Lamar one-upped that by using it here to dictate the cadence with which he bats the living daylights out of an owl piñata. “DISCLAIMER: NO OVH*ES WERE HARMED DURING THE MAKING OF THIS VIDEO,” the screen reads. (Drake may disagree.)

Lamar cruises around his native Compton, California and immerses with a large crowd of people dancing in the street, which feels very “God’s Plan“-coded, but I could be galaxy-braining that.

“I’m glad DeRoz’ came home, y’all didn’t deserve him neither,” Lamar spits as DeMar DeRozan appears. (DeRozan is from Compton but starred for the Toronto Raptors from 2009-18.) But the most notable cameos come from Lamar’s family. The video switches to black-and-white and meets Lamar dancing with Whitney Alford, his longtime partner, and their two children, Uzi and Enoch, in their living room.

So many statements were made, explicitly and subtly, throughout the video to coincide with lyrical allegations, but the video ends quietly with the poignant and straightforward metaphor of Lamar walking away from a caged owl in a dark room.

Lamar released “Not Like Us” in early May at the height of he and Drake exchanging diss tracks. “Not Like Us” hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became the theme song to Lamar’s ongoing victory lap.

Watch the “Not Like Us” video above.

DeMar DeRozan Makes A Cameo In Kendrick Lamar’s ‘Not Like Us’ Video

July 4, 2024 by newhiphopnews

When Kendrick Lamar and Drake started beefing earlier this year, I’m not sure anyone expected one of the diss tracks in their back-and-forth to become the song of the summer, but Kendrick’s “Not Like Us” has become an inescapable anthem that just keeps building momentum.

First there was “The Pop Out”, where Lamar filled the Forum in L.A. and drew millions of viewers on Amazon for a celebration of Los Angeles, culminating in him performing “Not Like Us” not one, not two, not three, not four, but five times in a row to close out the show. During his fourth time running it back, he brought up seemingly all of L.A. onto the stage, including a pair of NBA players, as L.A. natives Russell Westbrook and DeMar DeRozan gleefully danced on stage.

The victory lap continued as shortly after “The Pop Out”, Kendrick was seen filming the “Not Like Us” music video, and the Compton native dropped the visuals on July 4. In the video, DeRozan makes an appearance during Lamar’s “I’m glad DeRoz’ came home, y’all didn’t deserve him neither” line (2:42 mark), referencing the former Raptor’s stint in Toronto. Getting one of Drake’s beloved Raptors players to make a video appearance in a diss track is a special kind of twist of the knife from Kendrick, who has looked to find every possible way to make Drake miserable during this beef.

As for DeRozan, he is still figuring out where he’ll play next season, as it seems increasingly unlikely he’ll be back in Chicago and is exploring sign-and-trade options — which figure to include Los Angeles as a possible destination.

Kendrick Lamar Previews New Song In Beginning Of “Not Like Us” Music Video

July 4, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Kendrick Lamar has once again set the music world on fire. Today he finally released the highly-anticipated “Not Like Us” music video. While there are plenty of obvious, and not-so-obvious Easter eggs hidden throughout the video, one of the undeniable ones comes at the very beginning. In fact, he gives listeners a taste of an unreleased track, and teases new music within the first 20 seconds of the video. Audiences couldn’t be happier to hear that he does in fact, have new music coming.

The music video opens with Lamar’s trademark introspection. The beat is backed by the unmistakable sound of Mustard, who has become synonymous with the West Coast sound. Within the opening of the visual, there’s a still shot of the Compton Courthouse. Then, we see a black-and-white flashing visual of Kendrick in a hallway, followed by him rapping the lyrics: “I am reincarnated, I was stargazing/Life goes on, I need all my babies. Woke up looking for the broccoli/Hot key, keep a horn on me, that kamasi/IP ownership, the blue print is by me/Mister get-off, I get off at my feet.”

Listen To Kendrick Tease The New Song

Lamar’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of his evolution as an artist and a person. “I am reincarnated, I was stargazing / Life goes on, I need all my babies,” seems to be him entering a new era. He blends themes of rebirth and family with his signature blend of introspective commentary and social critique. Fans are left eagerly anticipating what could be yet another groundbreaking addition to his discography. Beyond the music itself, “Not Like Us” serves as a reunion of sorts for the West Coast hip-hop scene. Lamar’s ability to bring together diverse elements of the genre is showcased brilliantly in the video, where familiar faces and new talent alike take center stage.

“This is gonna be fire,” one person wrote about the teased song. “We need the album!” another one wrote. “I ain’t think he could make a better hit than not like us….” someone else said. Furthermore, the visuals accompanying “Not Like Us” are a testament to Lamar’s artistic vision. Did you get a chance to watch it yet? What are your thoughts? Are you ready for new music from Kendrick? Let us know on HNHH!

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Kendrick Lamar Takes A Triumphant Victory Lap In “Not Like Us” Music Video

July 4, 2024 by newhiphopnews

The wait is over. Kendrick Lamar is poppin’ out today with the “Not Like Us” music video. Social media and Kendrick fans alike couldn’t be more excited that it’s finally here. After weeks of teasing and speculation, the video is here and it quite literally features the whole city. The buzz around the “Not Like Us” music began last month when news broke that Kendrick Lamar was filming the video in his hometown of Compton. Reports of him being surrounded by a large crowd of fans and fellow artists heightened expectations for what was to come. Kendrick’s connection to Compton has always been a significant part of his identity as an artist, and fans couldn’t wait to see how this would be portrayed in the visuals.

True to Kendrick’s style, the “Not Like Us” video delivers a compelling narrative through a series of vivid scenes and symbolic imagery. One striking moment towards the end captures Kendrick looking at an owl trapped in a bird cage. Moreover, this is a a scene that definitely carries deeper layers of meaning, and is a direct shot at rival Drake’s OVO imagery. In addition, there’s of course other imagery embedded within the video. But you’ll have to see for yourself.

Watch The “Not Like Us” Music Video By Kendrick Lamar

Clocking in at just under six minutes, the “Not Like Us” video is a visual feast. It’s filled with dancing, iconic stops at spots such as Tam’s Burgers, and several cameo appearances. The comment section is already filled with tons of support. “Kendrick really gave us the song of the century,” one person wrote. Similar to his The Pop Out event on Juneteenth, each new element of the song “Not Like Us” contributes another unforgettable moment to history.

Moreover, the release of “Not Like Us” music video brings the song to life in a new way. One thing is certain: Kendrick Lamar’s impact on the music industry remains as profound and relevant as ever. What do you think of the music video? Did Kendrick pop out and show n****s? Share your thoughts on HNHH!

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NAV And Metro Boomin Tease Collaborative Album Coming Soon

July 4, 2024 by newhiphopnews

NAV and Metro Boomin are workhorses. They are constantly touring, recording, or planning their next album. It’s obviously benefited them. Both artists have risen in popularity over the last decade. Metro, in particular, has become the most sought-out producer in hip-hop. NAV and Metro Boomin recently talked about their tireless recording process. In the midst of talking shop, these two hinted at the possibility of another collaborative album.

The whole thing came about due to a NAV question. He asked Metro Boomin whether he was going to take a break after recording two consecutive albums with Future. The producer said that the opposite was true. “Nah, [I’m ready to keep] going,” he explained. “I’m a producer and it’s not the same as an artist who might burnt out with a specific style or their voice.” The money quote then arrived. Metro compared working with Future to working with NAV on an album. An album, seemingly, that fans have not yet heard. “I could do an album with Future,” Metro asserted. “And it’s not going to sound like my album with NAV.”

NAV And Metro Boomin Dropped A Collab Tape In 2017

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The cherry on top was Metro Boomin claiming that he always has something that he’s working on. The fact that Metro and NAV alluded to an album, and are even interviewing each other, suggests that there is something in the works. There’s also the fact that the producer and rapper have worked together in the past. They collaborated on the 2017 mixtape Perfect Timing. Both artists were still on the rise when the tape dropped, and it boosted their respective profiles.

There’s also the Drake-shaped elephant in the room. Metro Boomin and NAV were pitted against Drake during the recent hip-hop civil war. Metro spearheaded the war with “Like That,” and NAV caught a stray shot in the Drake diss “Family Matters.” Both artists are bonded by their dislike for the 6 God, and have made a point of working with artists who feel the same way. Metro Boomin linked up with Kendrick Lamar and NAV was photographed in the studio with Pharrell Williams. Maybe there are more subliminals aimed at Drake on this hypothetical album.

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