Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” Takes Summer by Storm: A Brief History of the Drake Beef

Kendrick Lamar’s Diss Track Against Drake Turns Into Summer Hit

What started as a diss track aimed at Drake in a decade-long feud has now transformed into the song of the summer. Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” has taken over the airwaves, playing at pool parties, school dances, and everywhere in between. Produced by Mustard, the track boasts a West Coast flow and upbeat tempo that makes it irresistibly catchy. But true to form, Kendrick Lamar uses the song as a platform to educate and enlighten his audience.

In the final verse of “Not Like Us,” Lamar delves into a brief history lesson on American slavery, focusing on Atlanta as a key location. He highlights the city’s role as “the Mecca” due to its railroad system, which was predominantly built by enslaved individuals in the 19th century. The wealth generated from these railroads turned Atlanta into a bustling hub, a legacy that still impacts the city today.

Drawing parallels between historical exploitation and modern-day issues, Lamar critiques Drake’s alleged exploitation of Black artists, particularly those from Atlanta. He calls out Drake for profiting off the culture without truly understanding or respecting it, likening him to a “colonizer” in the music industry.

Despite the intensity of their feud, Lamar’s performance at “The Pop Out” showcased his commitment to calling out injustices and holding his ground against Drake. While the beef may have simmered down, the popularity of “Not Like Us” shows no signs of waning, promising to be a summer anthem that resonates with listeners far and wide.