Kendrick Lamar’s electrifying performance during the Super Bowl LIX halftime show not only entertained millions but also reignited the ongoing feud between him and fellow rapper Drake. The event, held on February 10, 2025, showcased a series of subtle—and some not-so-subtle—digs at Drake, marking another chapter in their high-profile rivalry that has captivated fans and media alike.
Kendrick Lamar and Drake beef: What’s the latest?
The tension between Kendrick Lamar and Drake has been brewing since March 2023. This feud kicked off when Kendrick dropped a verse on Metro Boomin’s and Future’s track, “Like That,” which slammed Drake as he took aim at the so-called ‘big three’ in rap, which included both artists along with J Cole. The heat intensified when both rappers unleashed diss tracks against each other, leading to a public spat that had fans buzzing.
The big three
The original conflict revolved around Kendrick’s verse that challenged the status of the top rappers. He questioned the ‘big three’ label, which made fans wonder if he was trying to knock Drake off his pedestal. This bold move set the stage for the back-and-forth that would soon follow.
Boiling point
The feud erupted further when Kendrick released several tracks that many interpret as digs at Drake. Songs like “Euphoria” and “Not Like Us” quickly climbed the charts and amassed billions of streams, solidifying Kendrick’s place in the spotlight, though igniting even more drama between the two artists. Notably, “Not Like Us” earned him five Grammy Awards—proof of its profound impact.
Kendrick comes out fighting
During the Super Bowl performance, Kendrick took a bold stance. He teased sections of “Not Like Us” and even included a censored version of the track. The performance was laced with references that both fans and critics interpreted as pointed jabs at Drake, leaving no doubt that this was more than just another performance—it was a statement.
Families embroiled
The feud has turned personal at times, with delicate matters involving allegations surrounding both artists. Drake found himself recently filing a lawsuit against Universal Music Group, claiming defamation due to the release of Kendrick’s song. This legal battle adds an even heavier element to their ongoing scuffle, drawing in not just the two artists, but also their families and loved ones.
Club hit
- Kendrick’s Super Bowl performance led to a significant spike in streams for his songs, with “Not Like Us” seeing a staggering 430% increase.
- Following the halftime show, fans quickly took to social media to discuss the implications of Kendrick’s performance and its ongoing rivalry with Drake.
- Many fans enjoy analyzing every song and lyric, trying to decipher hidden meanings and references within their tracks.
Drake sues record label
In January 2024, things took a legal twist when Drake filed a lawsuit against Universal Music Group for allowing the release of Kendrick’s diss track. Drake contended that he was unfairly targeted and that the lyrics were damaging to his reputation. This move signaled that the feud was reaching new heights, with both artists unwilling to back down.
Super Bowl show
With Kendrick’s striking halftime performance capturing everyone’s attention, it became clear that this ongoing dispute will not fade away anytime soon. Amid elaborate costumes and thrilling visuals, the underlying tension permeated through Kendrick’s song selection and lyrical references, which kept fans talking long after the last notes played. Whether this marks an escalation or a turning point in their relationship remains to be seen, but the world of hip-hop is witnessing the intensity of their rivalry unfold in real-time.
