Kendrick Lamar‘s “Not Like Us” video may have ruined Drake’s holiday, but according to TMZ, it certainly helped boost the local economy in Kendrick’s hometown. Tam’s, the greasy spoon takeout restaurant that features prominently in the video — and in Kendrick’s life and music — reported a boost in sales at its Rosecrans location in Compton (there are several other Tam’s restaurants dotted throughout LA County) picked up by 30 to 40 percent, with a large influx of tourist interest in the location.
(This is all well and good, thank you for your support, but speaking as a local… please do not get y’all selves in trouble trying to play tourist. For one thing, you’re missing the point of the song.)
The first Tam’s was opened in 1971, selling not just burgers and fries, but also Mexican staples like tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and the like. Kendrick’s Tam’s is located at the corner of Rosecrans and Central (mine was on Alameda between Rosecrans and Compton) and K Dot has mentioned it in songs like “Element,” where he raps, “I be hangin’ out at Tam’s, I be on Stockton.”
In a 2012 interview with Nardwaur, Kendrick says his order at Tam’s is chili cheese fries, although TMZ notes he also orders the bacon cheeseburger:
Kendrick also mentioned Tam’s in a 2012 interview with Complex, where he compared it to the more well-known West Coast staple In-N-Out: “Everybody loves In-N-Out, but it’s a very clean-cut burger,” he said. “Tam’s is street-sloppy, burgers and shakes. It’s a chain, but it’s still hood.”
Kendrick Lamar‘s “Not Like Us” video may have ruined Drake’s holiday, but according to TMZ, it certainly helped boost the local economy in Kendrick’s hometown. Tam’s, the greasy spoon takeout restaurant that features prominently in the video — and in Kendrick’s life and music — reported a boost in sales at its Rosecrans location in Compton (there are several other Tam’s restaurants dotted throughout LA County) picked up by 30 to 40 percent, with a large influx of tourist interest in the location.
(This is all well and good, thank you for your support, but speaking as a local… please do not get y’all selves in trouble trying to play tourist. For one thing, you’re missing the point of the song.)
The first Tam’s was opened in 1971, selling not just burgers and fries, but also Mexican staples like tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and the like. Kendrick’s Tam’s is located at the corner of Rosecrans and Central (mine was on Alameda between Rosecrans and Compton) and K Dot has mentioned it in songs like “Element,” where he raps, “I be hangin’ out at Tam’s, I be on Stockton.”
In a 2012 interview with Nardwaur, Kendrick says his order at Tam’s is chili cheese fries, although TMZ notes he also orders the bacon cheeseburger:
Kendrick also mentioned Tam’s in a 2012 interview with Complex, where he compared it to the more well-known West Coast staple In-N-Out: “Everybody loves In-N-Out, but it’s a very clean-cut burger,” he said. “Tam’s is street-sloppy, burgers and shakes. It’s a chain, but it’s still hood.”
With the entire West Coast on 10 right now thanks to Kendrick Lamar’s massive win over Drake, everyone is eager to drop. YG is one of those guys, especially as of late. The Compton native is working toward the release of his third entry in the Just Re’d Up series, which is dropping on August 16. He broke the news on his social media platforms a couple of weeks ago, along with the artwork which pays homage to the exotic car theme. On cover three, the hitmaker is with a trio of whips which includes a Maybach, Ferrari and Rolls-Royce. Enough about expensive vehicles, though, YG has a new single called “STUPID” out now!
This is potentially the fifth promotional cut, with 2022’s “Miss My Dawgs” with Lil Wayne possibly being the lead-off record. However, we know for sure that “WEIRD”, “SHAKE”, and “KNOCKA” are making the final cut. “STUPID” is following up on the second of those three, which was a** popping track featuring Kaliii and Stunna Girl. On “STUPID”, YG is offering up a pure West Coast banger about living life unapologetically and it features production from Mustard. The latter lays down another winner of an instrumental, especially with the addition of the flutes. Lil Yachty and Babyface Ray also appear on the single, both providing some solid and cohesive performances overall.
Listen To “STUPID” By YG, Lil Yachty, & Babyface Ray
Quotable Lyrics:
Ayy, n****s be the loudest with no fuckin’ money (Skee) I be blowin’ b****es backs off two packs of— (Wah) How you sent your boys to war with no ammunition? Yeah, you put up Rolls Royce, but it’s standard edition (Wah) Found out what you hit this s*** like a bad magician This enough to cook his waiter, lose existence
Mustard’s year is currently defined by the success of his collaboration with Kendrick Lamar on “Not Like Us”. The Drake diss track is breaking records, running the charts, and being dubbed as the song of the summer by many. In addition to helping claim Kung Fu Kenny the crown in the beef, his appearance in the accompanying music video is also another huge W. In just three days, the visuals have accumulated over 34 million views in just three days. While all of this has really helped out Mustard in 2024, do not forget that this producer has been killing it years before this. Pretty soon, Mustard is going to notch another feather in his cap when he drops his new album this Friday.
Shortly before Lamar held The Pop Out, the hitmaking expert announced Faith Of A Mustard Seed. He did so by dropping a trailer that included some behind the scenes footage of him and potential features working in the studio. Since then, fans have received a handful of extra goodies about the album. One of them is that Mustard is going to be rapping for the first time on any of his projects. Even though Mustard never had any intentions of laying down bars, he felt that had to change. “I’ve been behind the boards so long that nobody has ever heard my side of things. When it comes to anything. Family or friends… I think it was just the time”.
Prior to this news, we were given “Parking Lot” featuring Travis Scott, which is presumably the lead single. It ended a near six-year drought without a La Flame and Mustard track, with the last one being “Dangerous World” in 2018 with YG. There is some hype surrounding the fact that “Not Like Us” could be the real first look. However, that is all pure estimation right now. Mustard shared the album artwork on X earlier today as well the drop date. “PRAY FOR ME 7.12 #FOAMS ”.
What are your thoughts on Mustard dropping Faith Of A Mustard Seed this Friday, July 12? Is this a genius move by the famous California producer? Who do you want to see featured on the album and why? Do you think “Not Like Us” and/or another Kendrick Lamar feature will be on it? We would like to hear what you have to say, so leave your thoughts in the comments. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest news surrounding Mustard. Finally, stay with us for everything else going on in the music world.
From the streets of Los Angeles to the top of the charts, Mustard has cemented himself as a cornerstone of hip-hop and R&B. Born Dijon McFarlane, Mustard’s rise to fame is a testament to the power of innovation and a deep understanding of the genre’s roots. Emerging in the early 2010s, he brought a fresh, minimalist approach to production that revitalized West Coast hip-hop and influenced the global music scene.
DJ Mustard’s signature sound is instantly recognizable, marked by its infectious basslines, crisp snares, and the iconic “Mustard on the beat, ho!” tag. It’s a sound that captures the essence of L.A.’s vibrant music culture. He mixes the grit and glamour of the city into a sonic experience that is raw and polished. Over the years, he has collaborated with an array of artists. These range from burgeoning talents to established stars, crafting hits that resonate across dance floors and airwaves. His evolution as a producer reflects a keen ability to adapt and innovate while staying true to the foundational elements that first captured our ears. Here, we delve into five essential tracks encapsulating DJ Mustard’s journey.
In 2011, Tyga’s “Rack City” made a considerable impact, signaling a significant change in the hip-hop scene. It also introduces DJ Mustard as a groundbreaking producer. Hailing from the gritty streets of Los Angeles, Mustard’s production style on “Rack City” stood out against the heavily layered beats dominating the charts. The track’s hard-hitting bassline stripped down hip-hop to its pulsating core, reflecting the hustle of LA’s streets.
“Rack City” wasn’t just a hit; it became an anthem that brought the party from LA’s clubs to the global stage. The track reached No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its simplicity was its brilliance, making it an instant classic that resonated with fans and club-goers. The success of “Rack City” also showcased DJ Mustard’s talent for creating beats that were both innovative and deeply rooted in the West Coast sound. This track not only propelled Tyga into the spotlight but also solidified DJ Mustard as the pioneer of a new era in hip-hop, where less was undeniably more.
2. “Paranoid” By Ty Dolla $ign (Featuring B.o.B) (2013)
“Paranoid” by Ty Dolla $ign and B.o.B was a turning point in Mustard’s career. It showed that he could blend different types of music together seamlessly. This record was about him working with Ty Dolla $ign on something that mixed R&B sensibility with Mustard’s signature minimalistic style. It formed one smooth package from start to finish. What did this sound like? Think clean hi-hats backing a catchy chorus over an unforgettable instrumental.
At the same time though, what did it do for DJ Mustard? Well, it gave him several chart-toppers on Billboard Hot 100 and introduced many people nationwide who otherwise wouldn’t have cared about West Coast anthems. But I guess what I’m trying to say is that if you were ever under the impression that all DJ Mustard can do is make songs for the clubs, then think again. Not only can he create radio-friendly tracks too, but also—this song is that it really shows us how versatile an artist like Dijon McFarlane truly is. “Paranoid” remains such a statement within his discography – it represents so much more than just another banger.
YG’s 2013 track, “My N*gga,” is the perfect example of his ability to produce street bangers that hit hard. The song features Jeezy and Rich Homie Quan and showcases the unpolished intensity often found in Mustard’s beats. A throbbing bass line and sharp claps form a stripped-down yet infectious backdrop for boastful verses from the guest emcees.
Further, the single shot up the charts. It ultimately peaked at No. 19 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned heavy club rotation. But “My N*gga” was more than just a successful record; it was a cultural moment that embodied the spirit of West Coast rap. The triumph of this song only established DJ Mustard as a hitmaker capable of channeling street energy into chart-toppers. This track served as an important milestone in his career. It represented another step towards building a recognizable sound for modern-day Southern California hip-hop with YG at its forefront. Regarding discography alone, “My N*gga” is one of DJ Mustard’s most impactful songs simply because it shows how less can become more when connecting deeply with listeners’ hearts.
4. “2 On” By Tinashe (Featuring ScHoolboy Q) (2014)
In 2014, DJ Mustard showed his wide-ranging skills and ability to connect different styles by producing Tinashe’s breakout single “2 On.” The song mixed the mellow, seductive qualities of R&B with the high-energy energy of hip-hop. It was a combination that was fresh as well as universally likable. As for the beat itself, it’s classic Mustard: a stripped-down groove built from a deep bass line, snapping snares, and a sing-song hook. Tinashe glides through the track with sultry ease while ScHoolboy Q adds some street-level grit to his guest verse, making for a smooth and savvy record.
“2 On” quickly became an anthem for the summer. It peaked at No. 24 on the Hot 100 and was inescapable on radio and in clubs. But the song also proved that DJ Mustard could cook up hits that lived outside of genre boundaries. He’d become just as much of an asset to R&B singers as he had been to rappers. It’s essential because it showcased his ability to make crossover records. This also emphasizes his status as someone who could easily conquer charts and dance floors. More importantly, though, this track further cemented his reputation as a hit-maker who refuses to color inside of genre lines. DJ Mustard only knows how to create music that is both forward-thinking and commercially successful.
A masterclass in DJ Mustard’s star-making signature style mixed with big-name features, “Post to Be” is the 2014 track that shows how it should be done. With Omarion, Chris Brown, and Jhené Aiko on deck, hooks and vocals are guaranteed; but its production truly sets this song apart from other collabs. It wouldn’t be a Mustard beat without bouncy rhythms accompanied by crisp hi-hats – which still manage to hit hard even though they’re not too heavy themselves. This is all underneath a bassline, demanding that no one can stay still while listening, especially when considering how well each artist plays off one another throughout each verse. Omarion delivers those suave lines only he can pull off so effortlessly, followed by some charismatic bars courtesy of Chris Brown himself before closing things out strong, thanks largely partly to Jhene Aiko’s unforgettable line.
All these elements came together perfectly enough to make “Post To Be” No. 13 on the Billboard Top 100 Chart. This made it both a commercial smash success and a club banger favorite for many years. People are still playing this song every chance they get at parties or just driving around town, blasting their radios with windows rolled down wide open, singing along word-for-word.
Tommy The Clown, a Los Angeles icon, was previously at Lamar’s The Pop Out concert (as were a number of other folks mentioned below). Here, he kicks off the video by asking Lamar for a password and hitting play on the song.
Whitney Alford and children
This one is perhaps the video’s most notable guest: Alford is Lamar’s fiancée and their two children also appear, with the four of them dancing to the song. These cameos are presumably a clap-back at Drake: On “Family Matters,” he alleged that Dave Free is actually the father of one of Alford and Lamar’s kids. Speaking of Free…
Dave Free
…he’s in the video, too. He co-directed it, actually, indicating that there is no bad blood between him and Kendrick.
DeMar DeRozan
This is a natural cameo, since the NBA star, who started his career in Drake’s hometown of Toronto before stints in San Antonio and Chicago, is mentioned in the song’s lyrics: “I’m glad DeRoz’ came home, y’all didn’t deserve him neither.”
Mustard
Another logical inclusion: Mustard produced “Not Like Us,” and he drives home the Drake diss here by rocking a Toronto Blue Jays hat in the video.
YG
YG found himself involved in the Drake beef: Drake gave YG a positive shout-out on “Family Matters,” and while some thought YG later dissed Drake on his song “Weird,” YG denied it.
Anthony “Top Dawg” Tiffith
After launching his career with Top Dawg Entertainment, Lamar has moved onto a new label arrangement. It appears to be all love between him and his former boss, though, as Top Dawg pops up in the new video.
In an exclusive interview with REAL 92.3’s Cruz Show, DJ Mustard revealed he will be rapping for the first time on his upcoming album, Faith of a Mustard Seed.
Mustard shared that his rap debut comes at the end of a new track, where he felt the most vulnerable. He expressed that he owed it to his fans to share his personal experiences, including struggles with COVID, his divorce, and other life challenges.
During the interview, DJ Mustard also discussed the album’s inspiration and his ongoing collaboration with Kendrick Lamar. He mentioned that he still sends Lamar five beats a day and provided more insights into their hit song “Not Like Us.”
Mustard has had the game on lock for over a decade. Though the West Coast super-producer rose to prominence in 2012 as the beatmaker for Tyga’s “Rack City,” it was in 2014 that he launched his 10 Summers label imprint, vowing to keep delivering heat for at least the following decade of summers.
Since then, he’s produced for the likes of Tinashe, Rihanna, Ella Mai, Roddy Ricch, and most recently, Kendrick Lamar. When you hear that “Mustard on the beat, ho” tag at the beginning of a track, you know you’re in for a hit. But on his upcoming fourth album, Faith Of A Mustard Seed, Mustard will not only be on the beat. In an interview on The Cruz Show, Mustard revealed that he will be making his rap debut on Faith Of A Mustard Seed.
When asked about the songs he looks forward to people hearing on the album, Mustard said he feels that way about all of the songs on the album.
“I’m definitely a little nervous for my song, that I’m rapping,” said Mustard. “But I feel like anytime you’re nervous, that’s a good thing. You’re nervous the first day of school, like, ‘I wonder if they’re gonna like my fit.’”
Elsewhere in the interview, he revealed that he’s played the track for YG, Vince Staples, and Jay-Z, who gave the song their seal of approval.
You can see the interview above.
Faith Of A Mustard Seed is out 7/26 via 10 Summers.
Fans are shivering with anticipation for Kendrick Lamar‘s upcoming music video for “Not Like Us.” But the behind the scenes footage is proving to be equally as captivating as the yet-to-be-released visual. Last week, Lamar was in Compton filming the video for the Drake diss track, and several fans showed up to witness history in the making.
In between shooting scenes for the video, Lamar walked by fans. As he was passing by the crowd, a fan pinched him on the cheek. This prompted a huge smile from Lamar, who was seen glowing as a result.
A clip of Lamar reacting to his cheek being pinched has gone viral on social media, with many fans finding Lamar’s reaction adorable.
One fan on X (formerly Twitter) called this “the pookiefication of kendrick lamar”)
This year has been one of the wildest for hip-hop in quite some time. Most of that can be attributed the thrilling battle between Kendrick Lamar and Drake. Those first few days of May where they went tit for tat with diss records was an unforgettable moment. Of course, that brief stretch included “Not Like Us”, which is seen as Kendrick’s dagger and the West Coast’s as well. The record became an instant hit, partially because of Mustard’s incredible beat. The latter has been one of the top-flight producers for a while now, notching collaborations with so many superstars. However, this Kendrick Lamar collaboration did not come as easy as the others.
The critically acclaimed beat crafter sat down with Big Boy to talk about the song, as well as The Pop Out and much more. During their hour-long sit-down, Mustard explained that he was sending Lamar beat after beat during the back-and-forth with Drake. In fact, he says it was around five a day and probably hit almost 100 in total. Ultimately though, he was not sure what would happen. Then, he received a text while driving to a baby shower, saying that the Compton rapper dropped another diss track. Shortly after, Mustard said he got another message that read one of the best quotables from the song, “‘Mustard on the beat ho’”.
He told Big Boy he was all sorts of confused, “I’m like ‘Wtf did I miss?’ And that’s how I heard the song on the 405 freeway, driving, and I start spazzing…listening to it over and over. I couldn’t believe it”, Mustard explained. Even though, he is a fantastic producer, the Los Angeles, California native can now say he is a part of a historical moment in the genre’s history. Mustard is doing a great job of capitalizing on this, as he is dropping his new album, Faith Of A Mustard Seed, on July 26.
What are your thoughts on how Mustard heard “Not Like Us” for the first time? Is this one of the best diss tracks of all time, why or why not? Where does this beat rank for Mustard’s discography? Will this become the most iconic diss record ever? We would like to hear what you have to say, so leave your thoughts in the comments. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest news surrounding Mustard and Kendrick Lamar. Finally, stay with us for everything else going on in the music world.
(@vminscvpher)