Music

Kendrick Lamar’s ‘Not Like Us’ is the Hip-Hop Moment of the Decade

19 July

Since the Notorious B.I.G. and Tupac Shakur traded barbs that tragically escalated into real-life violence, hip-hop hasn’t witnessed a feud capture the scene quite like Kendrick Lamar’s throwdown with Drake. Especially not in this decade, where diss tracks often feel manufactured and forgettable. But “Not Like Us”? That’s a different story.

A scorching continuation of his ongoing feud with Drake. The track pulls no punches, with lines like, “Certified Lover Boy, Certified pedophiles, Say, Drake, I hear you like ’em young,” calling out Drake in an unprecedentedly direct manner. Lamar further accuses Drake of leveraging other artists for street credibility, name-dropping heavyweights like Future, Lil Baby, and 21 Savage to illustrate his point. This lyrical assault has not only grabbed attention but also reignited discussions about authenticity and influence in hip-hop.

Cultural Impact

The immediate cultural impact of “Not Like Us” was undeniable. Within hours of its release, the song amassed millions of views and streams, quickly becoming a summer anthem. High-profile endorsements from celebrities like Serena Williams, Chris Brown and LeBron James, who dubbed it the song of the summer, further solidified its status. The track’s incendiary lyrics and Lamar’s fearless delivery have made it a staple in conversations about the future of hip-hop, as the hit song has proved to not just be a diss track; but a cultural reset that has resonated across the hip-hop community. Its success lies in its ability to blend sharp lyrical content with a broader commentary on authenticity and influence. By addressing real issues within the industry and calling out perceived falsehoods, with biting lines like, “You run to Atlanta when you need a few dollars, No you not a colleague, you a f**kin’ colonizer,” Lamar has created a track that is both a critical and commercial success.

The Juneteenth Pop Out Concert

Lamar’s one-off ‘The Pop Out: Ken & Friends’ show at the Kia Forum in LA on Juneteenth was a historic celebration that elevated the song’s status even further. The performance was not just a concert but a cultural event, featuring a star-studded lineup including DJ Mustard, YG, and members of Black Hippy. Lamar’s decision to perform “Not Like Us” five times throughout the night was a bold statement, each rendition more electrifying than the last. The show captured the spirit of West Coast hip-hop and reaffirmed Lamar’s influence and legacy.

The Visuals

Adding another layer to this cultural phenomenon, the music video for “Not Like Us” was released on July 4th. Directed by Lamar and Dave Free, the video is a masterpiece that celebrates California culture while continuing the lyrical battle with Drake. From performing push-ups on cinderblocks to smashing an owl piñata (a nod to Drake’s OVO Sound), the video is rich with symbolism. The playful disclaimer, “No OVHoes were harmed during the making of this video,” highlights the feud’s intensity with a touch of humor.

The video’s conclusion, featuring Lamar dancing with his partner Whitney Alford and their two children, serves as a counter to Drake’s abuse allegations in “Family Matters.” This familial scene not only humanises Lamar but also reinforces his message of unity and resilience in the face of adversity. It’s a touching moment that contrasts the harshness of the feud with a glimpse of personal triumph.

What’s Next?

As we bask in the aftermath of the latest release, one question lingers: Will Drake respond, and if so, how? The stage is set for a potential comeback, but for now, Kendrick holds the crown. “Not Like Us” has not only defined the summer but also set a new benchmark for what a diss track can achieve. The hip-hop scene watches eagerly to see how this rivalry will unfold and what new heights it might reach, especially as the Recording Academy CEO, Harvey Mason Jr recently confirmed that the hit song is eligible for a Grammy, Will we see Kendrick on the Grammys stage next year, securing an award for his scathing takedown of Drake? Only time will tell.