Angel Reese is not interested in entering the fray. The Chicago Sky posted a video on Wednesday, May 1, showing the WNBA team’s players answering a loaded question: “Drake or Kendrick?” Reese’s teammates each chose a side — the results were lopsided in Drake’s favor — but Reese knew better. “I’m not getting in this controversy because I’ll be on Twitter, The Shade Room, all that,” Reese said. “Nope!”
Last month, Reese was drafted seventh overall by Chicago after a decorated collegiate career at LSU, where she and the Tigers won the national championship in 2023. Anyway, Reese’s favorite rapper might be her former LSU teammate, Flau’jae Johnson. The two co-starred in NLE Choppa’s “Champions” video last year, and Reese was also featured in the video for Latto and Cardi B’s “Put It On Da Floor Again.”
Young Guru has a bulletproof reputation within the hip-hop community. Not only has he produced and mixed for rappers like Jay-Z and Kanye West, but he’s dedicated his time to teaching the next generation of artists. He knows the history of the genre, and is able to contextualize it with a clarity that few mixers are capable of. This pedigree is what makes Young Guru’s comments on the new Kendrick Lamar diss “Euphoria” so insightful. There are plenty of insulting touches that resonated with listeners, but Guru pointed out two he felt have been overlooked.
Young Guru shed light on these two aspects via Instagram Stories. The first post addressed the audio that opens the song. The words are played in reverse, but Genius confirmed that they say “everything about me is true” when played forward. Guru confirmed the line to be taken from the 1978 film The Wiz, and explained the larger statement that Lamar is making about his opponent: Drake. “The dance scene in Oz is incredible but it points out that pop culture is fake,” he noted. “The Wiz changes the colors and people just go along with it. Richard Pryor later admits that he is a fake and a phony.”
Guru does not say he explicitly agrees with Lamar. He does, however, assert that the rapper is making parallels between Drake and Pryor’s character. Drake has been able to stay relevant for a decade and a half by embracing different sounds and trends, and K. Dot posits that he is changing the colors like the Wiz. The second part of Young Guru’s analysis had to do with the “Euphoria” beat. The song samples the Teddy Pendergrass classic “You’re My Latest, My Greatest Inspiration.”
It might not scan as a big deal on the surface, but the producer notes that Pendergrass suffered a debilitating injury late in his career. “Teddy Pendagrass [sic] got into a car accident,” he wrote. “And had to live the rest of his life paralyzed in a wheelchair.” Guru interprets this historical context as yet another dig at Drake, who rose to fame playing a wheelchair-bound character on Degrassi. The Toronto rapper also referenced Pendergrass on his 2016 single “Child’s Play.” The layers of meaning in “Euphoria” are seemingly endless, and Guru wants to remind listeners to keep digging.
The NPR Tiny Desk has served as a unqiue stage for many rappers and singers to show off their skills. Artists like Tyler, The Creator, Mac Miller, and Anderson .Paak have all made memorable appearances behind the titular desk. There’s been an extremely impressive roster of bands and artists to play behind the desk over the years. During the COVID-19 pandemic they even creatively shifted the series to memorable at-home additions from artists like Young Thug and Clipping. Now, R&B darling Willow is the latest to take the iconic stage.
For her performance she dipped back into her discography and delivered a career-spanning set. She played a trio of songs set to land on her upcoming album including “Symptom Of Life,” “Run,” and “Big Feelings.” In between, she dipped into her 2022 album COPINGMECHANISM for the song “Split.” After that she went all the way back to her 2015 debut album ARDIPITHECUS for a special performance of the fan-favorite “Wait A Minute.” She did it all with the help of a lively four piece band. The video is already racking up hundreds of thousands of views and is currently trending on YouTube.
Willow is gearing up to release a new album later this year. “symptom of life” isn’t the only song she’s shared from the project so far. Last year she dropped “alone” back in November which has racked up more than 3 million streams on Spotify. Just last month she dropped “b i g f e e l i n g s” which is well on its way to matching those numbers with nearly 1.5 million streams in less than a month.
2023 was the first year since 2018 that Willow didn’t drop a new studio album following three solo releases and her collaborative project THE ANXIETY. What do you think of Willow’s newly released Tiny Desk Concert? Did you expect her to pull songs from so far back in her discography to perform? Let us know in the comment section below.
Benzino knows how to drum up controversy. The former editor of The Source Magazine has made a career out of it. Few people would know he was a rapper were it not for his highly-publicized beef with Eminem during the 2000s. Unfortunately, Benzino’s knack for making bold statements has come back to bite him. He recently went on the We In Miami podcast, where he declared that R Kelly should be given a second chance despite his heinous crimes. This proved to be the last straw for Benzino’s daughter, Coi Leray, who publicly denounced their relationship.
Leray posted an X (formerly Twitter) thread on May 1 to clarify her stance on Benzino’s comments. She did not mention R. Kelly by name, but it was obvious she did not agree with her father. “I want everybody to know I want nothing to do with anything my father has going on,” she wrote. “I haven’t spoken to him in over a year and I don’t condone or respect any of them interviews he got going on.” The rapper went on to explain that she does even want to be associated with Benzino in the future. “I don’t respect his decisions,” she added. “I want nothing to do with him please don’t even think of me when you see him.”
I want everybody to know I want nothing to do with anything my father has going on. I haven’t spoken to him in over a year and I don’t condone or respect any of them interviews he got going on. I don’t respect his decisions and I really want nothing to do with him please dont…
Coi Leray doubled down on her feelings towards her father in a second tweet. “Sharing the same DNA and blood doesn’t make us family,” she noted. “Loyalty, boundaries, respect, teaching, guidance, love, patience, encouragement makes us family… Keep me away from people who try to ‘get their lick back’ please.” The rapper then told followers that she looks forward to having a child of her own so that she could put what she’s learned into practice. “I can’t wait to have a kid one day,” she concluded. “I can’t wait to look her/him in the eye and tell them how much I love them.”
As sad as this exchange is, Benzino and Coi Leray’s estrangement is not surprising. The father and daughter have gone through a very public cycle of beefing and then making up over the years. Leray criticized Benzino for harassing her mother back in 2022, and went against her father when he tried to revive his beef with Eminem the same year. “Let’s build bridges and get over them before you burn the bridge and burn with it,” she said at the time. Unfortunately, the time for building bridges with Benzino seems to have come to an end.
Last year, Missy Elliott accomplished something incredibly impressive. Her career was honored with a spot in the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame. She lit up the stage during her induction unpacking some of her greatest hits. Despite the honor it was her mother who stole the show for a number of fans watching. She officially became the first ever female rapper to be inducted into the Hall. Just a few months later she performed at the Kennedy Center Honors alongside Rapsody to pay tribute to Queen Latifah.
Now the multi-medium talent is once again stretching her creative potential. According to Deadline, she’s joining the cast of an upcoming film Pharrell is in the process of creating. The film doesn’t have a title yet but it does have a director. The film will be helmed by legendary director Michel Gondry. The story of the movie is set to revolve around the producers childhood in Virginia Beach. She isn’t the first musical star to join the cast as Halle Bailey was also tapped to act in the film. Check out the full report of details known about the film so far below.
Grammy-winning hip-hop and R&B artist Missy Elliott has been tapped for a role in director Michel Gondry and producer Pharrell Williams’ new, untitled feature for Universal Pictures https://t.co/HCXqsrRfI3
Later this year, Missy Elliott will break new ground by taking off on her first ever headlining tour. Tickets for the tour went on sale last month and the tour itself will get underway in July. Stretching until mid-August she will play a number of dates in both American and Canadian cities. She’s also bringing Busta Rhymes, Timbaland, and Ciara along for the ride as opening acts in the highly-anticipated road show. Fans who have been eagerly awaiting the chance to see her live for years now finally have the chance to enjoy the dynamic performer.
What do you think of Missy Elliott showing off her acting skills in an upcoming Pharrell-produced movie? Are you planning on seeing the movie when it eventually drops? Let us know in the comment section below.
Jimmy Jam is celebrated for his part in the formidable music production duo alongside Terry Lewis. He has a net worth of $40 million as of 2024, according to CelebrityNetWorth. As a prolific music producer, songwriter, and musician, Jimmy Jam has left an indelible mark on the R&B and pop music scenes. His collaborative efforts with Terry Lewis have resulted in numerous chart-topping hits and have fundamentally reshaped the soundscapes of these genres. His career is characterized by a knack for innovative production and a deep understanding of the musical zeitgeist.
Hailing from Minneapolis, Jimmy Jam entered the music scene as a keyboardist for the band The Time. The group was associated with Prince. His journey with Terry Lewis from bandmates to production powerhouses is a staple story in the music industry. The duo’s firing from a Prince tour, due to a missed concert, ironically set the stage for their future success as independent producers.
Revolutionary Sound & Major Collaborations
Jimmy Jam during ASCAP “I Create Music” EXPO – Day 1 at Renaissance Hotel in Hollywood, California, United States. (Photo by Lester Cohen/WireImage for ASCAP)
Jimmy Jam’s approach to music production, characterized by sophisticated melodies, intricate harmonies, and groundbreaking synthesizer use, has significantly impacted the industry. His work with artists like Janet Jackson is particularly notable, like albums Control and Janet. They have driven the sound of an era and helped these artists redefine their careers.
Their production work extends to various other top-tier artists, including Mariah Carey, Boyz II Men, and Usher, illustrating the duo’s versatility and broad appeal. Each collaboration has been marked by a keen ability to tailor their style to enhance the artist’s strengths, creating distinctive hits that resonate across different audiences.
Awards & Recognition
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JUNE 16: (L-R) Jimmy Jam, Inductee Pharrell Williams and Terry. Lewis pose backstage at the Songwriters Hall of Fame 51st Annual Induction and Awards Gala at. Marriott Marquis on June 16, 2022, also in New York City. (Photo by L. Busacca/Getty Images for Songwriters Hall of Fame )
Jimmy Jam’s accolades over the years underscore his contributions to music. With multiple Grammy Awards under his belt, the industry’s recognition is a testament to his skill and enduring influence. Additionally, his induction and Terry Lewis’s into the Songwriters Hall of Fame highlight their significance as composers and cultural icons.
The recognition extends beyond awards; Jimmy Jam is also lauded for his leadership roles within music organizations, such as serving as the board chairman for the Recording Academy. These positions have allowed him to influence the industry through his music and advocacy for artists’ rights and music education.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 28: Jimmy Jam speaks onstage during the 62nd Annual GRAMMY Awards “Let’s Go Cr-zy” The GRAMMY Salute To Prince on January 28, 2020 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for The Recording Academy)
Jimmy Jam continues to be a force in music production. He has explored new technologies and collaborating with emerging artists to push the boundaries of what is possible in music. His ability to adapt to the digital age and remain relevant in a rapidly evolving industry speaks volumes about his mastery and vision. Further, Jimmy Jam’s influence on the music scene remains profound as he moves forward with new projects. His work enriches the current music landscape and inspires the next generation of musicians and producers. The legacy of his innovative spirit and musical excellence will undoubtedly continue to impact the industry for years.
XXXTentacion left an indelible impression on the music world. He was an immensely talented artist who was also accused of and charged with heinous criminal acts. X’s death at the age of 20 meant that he’d never get a chance to make up for his mistakes, or serve the jail time that some fans felt he should have. The men who were convicted of murdering XXXTentacion are still in the process of appealing their ruling. DJ Akademiks, however, turned the clock back on May 1 by posting previously unseen footage of the rapper during an interrogation.
The interrogation took place in 2016. XXXTentacion was arrested for stabbing Dylan Turner aka Tablez. The rapper can seen sitting on the right side of an interrogation room, where he is handcuffed to a chair. The audio quality is low, as DJ Akademiks points out, but X’s rage doesn’t need much interpretation. “All we got right now,” the interrogating officer stated. “Is that you went in there and grabbed his knife.” X slammed his head against the wall in frustration, yelling over the officer’s words.
The officer continued to explain what he felt went down, but X struggled to articulate his side of the story. “What the f*ck,” he said. “How–.” The rapper cut himself off to bury his head in his hands. “F*ck this sh*t,” he added. “F*ck this sh*t.” The situation looks dire from the footage, but XXXTentacion was actually released shortly after this interrogation took place.
Tablez made a full recovery from his injury, and agreed to drop all charges against the rapper. He said he didn’t “want one bad choice to define who [XXXTentacion] was.” In return, the rapper paid for Tablez’s medical bills. He also apologized to Tablez over the stabbing. “Thank you for dropping the charges,” X later asserted. “As f*cked up as the situation is, I am forever in your debt.”
XXXTentacion and Tablez may have made up, but both artists died before their time. The former was shot and killed in 2018, and the latter died from a drug overdose in 2022. Tablez was the “manager” for both X and Ski Mask the Slump God early in their careers, in addition to being part of the Members Only collective.
Terry Lewis is an iconic figure in the music industry. He has an estimated net worth of $50 million as of 2024, according to CelebrityNetWorth. Lewis, half of the legendary production duo Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, has profoundly shaped the sound of modern R&B and pop music. His innovative work alongside partner Jimmy Jam has resulted in numerous chart-topping hits and has earned them multiple Grammy Awards. Lewis’s career is distinguished by his pioneering production techniques and influence on several generations of artists.
Terry Lewis began his music career in Minneapolis. He played bass in several bands before teaming up with Jimmy Jam. Their breakout came after being fired from a tour with Prince. It also serendipitously propelled them into the production world. Their partnership quickly became one of music history’s most successful production enterprises, crafting hits for a who’s who of the music industry, including Janet Jackson, Mariah Carey, and Usher.
Pioneering Music Production
LOS ANGELES, CA – CIRCA 1986: (L-R) Manager John McClain, American R&B/pop songwriting and record producer. Terry Lewis, American singer, songwriter, actress, and dancer Janet Jackson and American R&B/pop songwriting and record producer. Jimmy Jam, pose for a portrait during the celebration for 2,000,000 copies of the album “Control” circa 1986, also in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Lester Cohen/Getty Images)
Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis’s production style is characterized by their innovative use of synthesizers, lush soundscapes, and intricate rhythms. Their work with Janet Jackson, particularly on the albums Control and Rhythm Nation 1814, is noted for its revolutionary sound that fused pop with funk, disco, and R&B elements. These albums catapulted Jackson’s career to new heights and solidified the duo’s reputation as masterful producers. Moreover, their ability to adapt to the evolving music landscape while maintaining their distinctive sound is a testament to their genius. Over the decades, they have continued producing hits. They’ve further adapted their style to fit contemporary trends while imbuing their productions with a timeless quality.
Legacy & Influence
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JUNE 16: (L-R) Terry Lewis, Fabolous, Jimmy Jam and Usher pose backstage at the Songwriters. Hall of Fame 51st Annual Induction and Awards Gala at Marriott Marquis on June 16, 2022, also in New York City. (Photo by L. Busacca/Getty Images for Songwriters Hall of Fame )
Terry Lewis’s influence extends beyond the many hits he has produced. He and Jimmy Jam have been instrumental in shaping the careers of numerous artists. They have also guided them to achieve musical success and critical acclaim. Their collaborative approach in the studio allows artists to bring their visions to life while expertly guiding the production process. This has been pivotal in their sustained relevance in the music industry.
The duo’s work has earned them accolades and a place in the Songwriters Hall of Fame. They were recognized for their contributions to music and their role in crafting the soundtrack for multiple generations. Their legacy is not just in the songs they have produced but also in how they have influenced the industry, setting standards for production quality and musical innovation.
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – NOVEMBER 17: Jimmy Jam (L) and Terry Lewis also attend the 2019. Soul Train Awards presented by BET at the Orleans Arena on November 17, 2019, also in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for BET)
Despite their decades in the industry, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis show no signs of slowing down. They continue to produce music, tapping into new genres and collaborating with contemporary artists. Their ability to remain relevant in a rapidly changing industry highlights their adaptability and continued passion for music. Additionally, as Terry Lewis moves forward with new projects, his legacy as a pioneer in music production is firmly established. His journey from a musician in Minneapolis to a global music influencer is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and innovative spirit. Terry Lewis’s career inspires aspiring producers and artists. His impact on the music industry will be felt for years to come.
Turk, known for his role in the Hot Boys era, has a net worth of $50 thousand, according to Celebrity Net Worth. This modest figure may seem surprising for an artist whose name was once synonymous with the pinnacle of rap royalty. However, it speaks volumes about the tumultuous journey and challenges he faced in his career. Let’s delve deeper into the rise of Turk, his contributions to the Hot Boys, his solo career, and the factors that have influenced his net worth over the years.
During the late 1990s and early 2000s, the rap landscape was electrified by the emergence of the Hot Boys, a group consisting of Turk, Lil Wayne, Juvenile, and B.G. Together, they crafted a sound that captured the essence of their hometown, New Orleans, while simultaneously resonating with audiences nationwide. Hits like “I Need A Hot Girl” and “We On Fire” dominated the airwaves, catapulting the Hot Boys to superstardom and laying the groundwork for Turk’s future success.
As part of the Hot Boys, Turk played a pivotal role in shaping the group’s identity and sound. His raw energy, gritty lyrics, and charismatic persona endeared him to fans and solidified his status as one of the genre’s rising stars. However, despite the group’s meteoric rise, internal tensions and external pressures ultimately led to their dissolution, forcing Turk to navigate the turbulent waters of the music industry on his own.
Undeterred by the demise of the Hot Boys, Turk embarked on a solo career that showcased his resilience and determination. In 2001, he released his debut album, Young & Thuggin’, which garnered widespread acclaim and established him as a force to be reckoned with in the rap game. Tracks like “It’s In Me” and “Project Bitch” showcased Turk’s lyrical prowess and storytelling ability, earning him respect from both fans and critics alike.
Subsequent albums, includingStill A Hot Boy and Penitentiary Chances, further solidified Turk’s place in hip-hop history. His willingness to explore different sounds and collaborate with a diverse range of artists demonstrated his versatility and helped him stay relevant in an ever-changing musical landscape. Despite facing personal and professional challenges along the way, Turk remained steadfast in his pursuit of excellence, cementing his legacy as a solo artist of considerable talent and influence.
Throughout his career, Turk has achieved numerous milestones and garnered recognition for his contributions to the rap scene. From performing alongside rap legends in the Hot Boys era to carving out a successful solo career, Turk’s journey is marked by resilience and dedication. Despite facing challenges, including legal troubles and personal setbacks, Turk has remained committed to his craft, earning respect within the industry and from fans worldwide.
Turk’s collaborations with other artists, including Juvenile, Lil Wayne, and Birdman, have further solidified his place in hip-hop history. His ability to adapt to changing musical trends while staying true to his roots has allowed him to maintain relevance in an ever-evolving industry.
Endorsements & Other Contributing Factors
In addition to his music career, Turk has explored various business ventures and endorsements that have contributed to his net worth. While specific details about his endorsements are not widely publicized, it’s evident that Turk has leveraged his fame and influence to secure lucrative deals outside of the music industry. From clothing lines to sponsored appearances, Turk has diversified his income streams, ensuring financial stability beyond his music career.
Despite facing financial challenges and setbacks throughout his career, Turk’s resilience and determination have allowed him to overcome obstacles and continue pursuing his passion for music. While his net worth may not rival that of some of his peers, Turk’s influence and impact on the rap scene are undeniable.
In conclusion, Turk’s net worth of $50 thousand reflects his journey from the Hot Boys era to his successful solo career. Through perseverance and dedication, Turk has solidified his place in hip-hop history, earning respect and admiration from fans and fellow artists alike.
Drake has been war-ready since he wrapped up his tour. As he performed from city to city to conclude the It’s All A Blur tour, the online tension that built from the success of “Like That” became palpable: a #1 song from the first of two albums dedicated to the “elimination of Drake.” Kendrick, however, became the only noteworthy competitor in rap’s Royal Rumble considering that he’s, at least, been consistent in his disdain for the Boy for over a decade. Everyone else – from Future to ASAP Rocky and Rick Ross – had nothing but love for Drake up until recently.
“Euphoria,” Kendrick Lamar’s response to Drake’s back-to-back releases of “Push Ups” and “Taylor Made Freestyle,” didn’t contain some sort of bombshell revelation that many anticipated. There’s clearly a shifting parameter regarding what’s expected – some feel as though this feud should exclusively consist of TheShadeRoom-worthy tea while others just hope that they get a club banger out of it. Both seem to be right up Drake’s alley.
But, back to “Euphoria,” Kendrick’s six-minute response that jabs at Drake’s insecurities, heritage, and general presence in hip-hop. Kendrick addresses everything that Drake laid out throughout two diss tracks, including publishing splits, AI Tupac, and the potential shot at his wife while simultaneously questioning Drake’s authenticity. Still, the primary criticism surrounding the track is that Kendrick doesn’t necessarily drop some sort of “new information” – a “The Story Of Adidon” type bombshell. Practically, a diss record to end all diss records and assert itself in the ranks of “Ether,” “Hit Em Up,” and even “Back To Back.”
This beef isn’t one of instant gratification. Their respective releases have shown that neither are ready to press the red button just yet. It’s a slow-burning feud, one that has built up for almost a decade and finally burst into mainstream conciousness. It’s been just over 24 hours since Kendrick Lamar released “Euphoria” and we’re all collectively still putting together the pieces that would make this song make sense. Whether it’s from the time in which it was released (8:24 am) as a tribute to Kobe Bryant, the title itself – a reference to the controversial HBO show that Drake executive produces — or the intro that samples Richard Pryor in The Wiz starring Michael Jackson, the number of layers in Kendrick’s intricate and dense record makes this feud all the more riveting. As much as rap fans are consumed by this beef, the heaviest shots that both Drake and Kendrick have taken at each other have been subtle and it seems like only they know what the other is talking about.
With that in mind, it appears that Kendrick Lamar is more committed to the idea of prolonging this battle until someone decides to raise a white flag. On both sides of the war, the goalpost has been shifted several times over. Drake was able to wait nearly a month until “Push Ups” appeared on DSPs (not that “official releases” have anything to do with rap beef). Days prior, Drake taunted Kendrick by suggesting that Taylor Swift was his new boss, inspiring the controversial “Taylor Made Freestyle.”
Then, Kendrick’s “Euphoria” struck, delivering on the anticipated “quadruple entendre” in the title alone. Yet, Kendrick still played into the predictions made by Drake on “Taylor Made” – potshots at Drake’s complexion, Canadian heritage, and the like. But those were only the ones that everyone was able to pick up immediately. Over time, we imagine that there will be plenty more to decipher, especially as Drake gears up to respond.
It’s clear that Kendrick did a bit more research than many would give him credit for on “Euphoria.” Take, for example, the New King Ho shout-out. Sure, Kendrick paints an image of himself in the core of Toronto eating fried rice with a strap on his waist but more importantly, Dot appears to be alluding to the death of rapper Sizzlac who, days before his passing, released a diss record and shot the music video at that same restaurant. Sizzlac, interestingly enough, has been tied to the infamous 2009 robbery involving Drake.
A coincidence? Probably not, especially once you start digging a bit deeper into bars like “I know some shit about n***as that make Gunna Wunna look like a saint.” Back in 2010, TheGlobe & Mailpublished an article titled, “What happened after two men robbed Drake at gunpoint.” The article itself shares a detailed account of the aftermath of the incident from a supposed police report, revealing the allegations of “snitching” Drake faced in the wake of the robbery. Though a police report was reportedly filed at the time, according to the article, Drake ultimately refused to cooperate. “A lawyer close to the process said the withdrawal of the charges was agreed before anyone had to testify but all indications were that Drake was ready to take the stand. He said the artist was ‘not exactly forthcoming, put it that way,’ but that he didn’t refuse to help the authorities at all,” Joe Friesen wrote. So, in the same way, people have argued whether Gunna’s Alford Plea consisted of snitching, it ultimately appears that Kendrick suggests that he has some sort of “dirt” on Drake that would make the public – and the streets – look at the Canadian rapper in the same light.
Still, for as salacious as this may be, this is publicly accessible information, and Kendrick didn’t dig too far deep for the obvious blows. “Why would I call around tryna get dirt on n***as? Y’all think all my life is rap?/ That’s ho shit, I got a son to raise, but I can see you don’t know nothin’ ’bout that.” This bar, in particular, does point out a contradiction. For one, Kendrick threw the first shot on “Like That” and also threw plenty of subliminal shots at Drake at any given opportunity. To act like this particular feud hasn’t somehow lived on for the past decade seems a bit disingenuous. Plus, the attacks on Drake’s paternal instinct became watered down through years of memes. Nonetheless, the fact that Kendrick continues to claw at Drake’s parental skills, from coping with divorced parents to the birth of Adonis out of wedlock, shows that Kendrick has been studying his adversary for years. Perhaps, to a nearly obsessive degree. Sure, Kendrick might be gunning at Drake’s insecurities but this song isn’t simply just a “nana nana boo boo” taunt. At its core, it’s a scathing evaluation of Drake that plainly spells out his insecurities and moral compass as a man beyond the persona he’s created within pop culture.
The consensus among Drake stans and Kendrick haters alike was that the Compton rapper reiterated the same talking points of Rick Ross, Pusha T, Megan Thee Stallion, and Meek Mill. Honestly, that should be less of the focus. As the saying goes, it’s not about what you say but how you say it. That argument feels like a coping mechanism for Drake’s obsessive fanbase, especially when the self-proclaimed GOAT has proven that he needs someone to push his back against the wall to sound inspired, at least when he’s rapping. Drake’s feud with Meek, for example, showcased his ability to weave together his lyrical tenacity and commercial appeal to ridicule one of his peers. It’s not that surprising though, considering Meek once advised his followers to play chess “like a king.”
Kendrick seems to be similarly methodical as Pusha T, which becomes clear by the end of “Euphoria.” “Infrared” and “Like That” became bait, though the former triggered a compulsive response. Less than a week after releasing “Duppy Freestyle,” Pusha T completely disarmed the Canadian star. Pusha T basically forced Drake to issue an apology for wearing Blackface, exposed him for hiding a “secret son,” and ultimately, sabotaged the rollout for Scorpion. Drizzy backed out and the promises of a “surgical summer” ended before the summer even began.
The main card event between Kendrick Lamar and Drake will hopefully pan out throughout the summer. Drake and Lamar have already hinted at obtaining career-damaging intel on each other but the last time we heard that, J. Prince intervened and thwarted any plans to release a nuke on the rap game. This time, Drake seems to have learned from his mistakes and attempted to move a bit more diligently than he did in the past, even if the majority of the barbs traded are akin to playground insults. However, Drake’s response will ultimately determine whether Kendrick intends to “take it further.”
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