The dynamic between Drake and Kendrick Lamar, once characterized by collaboration and mutual respect, has evolved into a fiery feud marked by scathing diss tracks and pointed exchanges. Billboard traces the complex relationship between two of rap’s biggest stars, revealing the peaks and valleys of their tumultuous journey.
2011-2013: Collaboration and Comradery
Initially, Drake and Kendrick Lamar’s relationship flourished as they collaborated on each other’s records, showcasing their lyrical prowess and rising prominence in the hip-hop landscape. Lamar’s feature on Drake’s “Take Care” album marked the beginning of a fruitful partnership, with Lamar’s verse on “Buried Alive Interlude” earning widespread acclaim.
Drake further solidified their camaraderie by inviting Lamar to join him as an opener on his Club Paradise Tour in 2012, recognizing Lamar’s talent and potential as a rising star in the rap scene. The duo continued to collaborate on tracks like “Fuckin’ Problems” and “Poetic Justice,” cementing their status as formidable forces in the industry.
2013-2014: The Rise of Tension
Tensions between Drake and Kendrick Lamar began to simmer following Lamar’s bold verse on Big Sean’s “Control,” where he called out numerous rappers, including Drake, in a bold declaration of his dominance in the rap game. Drake responded to Lamar’s diss with measured words, acknowledging Lamar’s ambition but asserting his own confidence in his abilities.
Lamar continued to take aim at Drake during the BET Hip-Hop Awards cipher, delivering pointed bars that challenged Drake’s status in the industry. Drake, in turn, addressed Lamar’s provocations in interviews and magazine covers, reaffirming his stance and refusing to be shaken by Lamar’s words.
2015-2023: Subtle Shots and Growing Animosity
In the years that followed, Drake and Kendrick Lamar exchanged subtle jabs through their music, with Lamar questioning Drake’s authenticity and Drake responding in kind. Despite occasional tensions, both artists continued to enjoy success in their respective careers, with occasional collaborations and joint ventures keeping fans intrigued.
2024: The Feud Reignites
The feud between Drake and Kendrick Lamar reached new heights in 2024 with a series of scathing diss tracks and public confrontations. Lamar’s blistering verse on Future & Metro Boomin’s “Like That” reignited the animosity between the two rappers, prompting Drake to respond during his concert in Sunrise, Fla.
Drake escalated the conflict with the release of diss tracks “Push Ups” and “Taylor Made Freestyle,” targeting Lamar with biting lyrics and provocative imagery. Lamar, undeterred, retaliated with the release of “Euphoria,” a six-minute diatribe that took aim at Drake’s character and career.
Conclusion
As Drake and Kendrick Lamar’s feud continues to unfold, fans are left to wonder whether the once-friendly collaborators will ever reconcile their differences. Despite their shared history and mutual admiration, the rift between Drake and Lamar serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges of navigating fame and success in the world of hip-hop.
