The music world has seen its fair share of feuds, but few have garnered as much attention and had such clear outcomes as the recent showdown between Kendrick Lamar and Drake. With the release of “Not Like Us,” Kendrick Lamar didn’t just add another set of Grammys to his collection—he set a new standard in the rap game that left his peers, notably Drake, looking up from a significant distance.
A Resounding Victory
Kendrick Lamar’s recent Grammy haul for “Not Like Us” not only bolstered his already impressive total to 22 awards but also marked a pivotal moment in his ongoing rivalry with Drake. The track itself, a masterclass in lyricism, earned Lamar five Grammys this year alone, matching Drake’s total career wins. As if scripted for maximum impact, “Not Like Us” won in every category it was nominated for, including Best Record and Best Song, becoming only the second rap song in history to clinch these titles.
The significance of these wins is amplified by a past endorsement from none other than former President Barack Obama, who had previously praised Lamar over Drake for his superior artistry. This public preference by Obama seems prophetic now as Lamar continues to pull away from his contemporaries, including Drake, in both critical acclaim and award counts.
Drake’s Grammy Skepticism
On the other side of the spectrum, Drake has had a tumultuous relationship with the Grammys. Absent from this year’s nominations, he chose to skip the ceremony altogether—a decision that didn’t surprise many given his previous criticisms of the Recording Academy. Drake has voiced his disillusionment with the Grammys’ process and their relevance, suggesting that the awards do not necessarily reflect the true essence of the hip-hop community. In a candid Instagram story, he remarked, “All you incredible artists remember this show isn’t the facts it’s just the opinion of a group of people whose names are kept a secret… This show doesn’t dictate shit in our world.”
Despite his criticisms, Drake’s absence and the lack of Grammy nods in his direction this year only seemed to underscore Lamar’s moment of vindication—where his artistic prowess was celebrated on one of music’s biggest stages, further distancing himself from his Canadian counterpart.
Looking Ahead: The Super Bowl and Beyond
As Kendrick Lamar rides high on his Grammy success, fans have more to look forward to. The rapper’s victory lap is set to continue at this year’s Super Bowl, where “Not Like Us” will feature prominently, reminding millions of viewers of his lyrical genius and the fierce, poetic justice served in his victory over Drake.
The impact of “Not Like Us” extends beyond just accolades; it reinforces Kendrick Lamar’s status as a luminary in rap and a voice for artistic integrity in a genre often overshadowed by commercial success. His triumph over Drake is not just a personal win but a win for the art form, proving once again that in the world of hip-hop, raw talent and genuine expression are the true measures of success.