Published: May 13, 2024
Kendrick Lamar’s blistering diss track “Not Like Us” debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 on May 13, 2024, marking a major moment not only in his illustrious career but also in one of the most talked-about feuds in modern music history. The single, widely recognized as a direct strike at fellow rapper Drake, has dominated charts, conversations, and social media since its release, reinforcing Lamar’s cultural significance and lyrical prowess.
Clocking an astonishing 70.9 million streams in its first week and selling over 15,000 units in the U.S., “Not Like Us” has become the epicenter of an escalating rivalry that has divided fans and gripped the music world. The track also shattered records on Spotify, setting a new benchmark with 12.8 million streams in a single day—an all-time high for a hip-hop song.
The track arrives in the middle of a heated lyrical battle between Lamar and Drake, which began with subtle barbs and escalated into full-blown diss tracks traded in rapid succession. “Not Like Us” has stood out for its ferocity, specificity, and masterful production, as Lamar skewers Drake with a blend of accusatory verses and clever metaphors that cut deep into questions of authenticity and legacy in hip-hop.
Kendrick Lamar, known for his Pulitzer Prize-winning album “DAMN.” and socially conscious storytelling, has rarely engaged in public feuds. But this time, the Compton rapper took a no-holds-barred approach, unleashing a five-minute sonic assault that leaves little ambiguity about its target.
The song’s reception has been electric, with fans praising its lyrical craftsmanship and audacity. Critics have called it one of the most effective diss tracks of the decade, drawing comparisons to iconic clashes in hip-hop history, including Nas vs. Jay-Z and Tupac vs. Biggie.
In a surprising move that further amplified the track’s reach, Lamar performed “Not Like Us” during the halftime show of Super Bowl LIX in February 2025. While certain controversial lyrics were omitted for the televised audience, the performance was seen as a bold statement, using one of the world’s biggest stages to reiterate his dominance in the feud. The show drew millions of viewers and reignited conversations about the boundaries of artistic expression during mainstream events.
Legal tensions have also surfaced. Drake’s record label attempted to dismiss a lawsuit related to the content of “Not Like Us,” citing artistic freedom and the longstanding tradition of lyrical sparring in rap. The legal proceedings underscore the complexities surrounding diss tracks, where the line between performance and personal attack can blur.
The feud itself has become a cultural flashpoint. Music analysts suggest that it’s more than a personal grudge—it’s a battle over values, representation, and authenticity in a genre that places a premium on realness. While Drake is known for his crossover appeal and emotional vulnerability, Lamar represents a more militant, purist strain of hip-hop, steeped in the socio-political fabric of his hometown.
This high-profile showdown has also revitalized public interest in lyrical rap. As “Not Like Us” continues to climb playlists and dominate streaming platforms, listeners are revisiting the tradition of diss tracks not merely as entertainment, but as a form of cultural commentary and artistic competition.
Despite the combative tone of the track, Lamar has remained relatively quiet in interviews, allowing the music to speak for itself. Meanwhile, Drake has yet to issue a formal response in song, fueling speculation about whether he will reply or retreat from the lyrical battlefield.
For now, “Not Like Us” stands as a cultural milestone—an explosive track that merges entertainment with confrontation, and cements Kendrick Lamar’s status as one of hip-hop’s most fearless voices. As the story continues to unfold, one thing is certain: the reverberations from this musical clash will be felt for years to come.