Drake and Kendrick Lamar, once collaborators, saw their relationship deteriorate in 2013. Lamar’s controversial verse on Big Sean’s track “Control” ignited tension when he called out Drake and other rappers by name, expressing a desire to outshine them. While Drake’s response in his song “The Language” was speculated to be a diss, Birdman, Drake’s label CEO at the time, denied any targeting of Lamar.
Despite occasional friction, their dynamic appeared stable when Drake praised Lamar at his OVO Festival the following year. However, on March 22, 2024, the feud reignited when Lamar featured on “Like That,” a diss track, asserting his superiority over J. Cole and Drake. This sparked retaliatory tracks from J. Cole and Drake, ushering in a new chapter in their ongoing feud.
Fast forward to 2025, where Lamar’s Super Bowl performance and Drake’s legal battle with their shared record label have kept the feud alive. Here are the standout moments from their ongoing rivalry:
Lamar’s Provocative References in “Like That”
In “Like That,” Lamar took aim at Drake with barbed lines like “Motherf–k the big three, n—a, it’s just big me” and “Your best work is a light pack, n—a, Prince outlived Mike Jack,” drawing a parallel between iconic artists. By likening himself to Prince and Drake to Michael Jackson, Lamar positioned himself not just as an artistic rival but a personal one.
Drake’s Witty Retaliation in “Push Ups”
Drake’s response, “Push Ups,” featured humorous jabs at Lamar, mocking his pop collaborations with Maroon 5 and Taylor Swift, and teasing him about his alleged shoe size. Drake also addressed Lamar’s comparison to Prince, asserting his dominance with lines like “What’s a prince to a king? He a son, n—a.”
Drake’s Strategic Move with “Taylor Made Freestyle”
In a calculated move, Drake released “Taylor Made Freestyle,” using AI voices of hip-hop legends to goad Lamar into a response. Referencing Lamar’s Compton roots and urging him to engage, the track was later removed due to a cease-and-desist order from Tupac Shakur’s estate.
Lamar’s Cutting Critique in “Euphoria”
In “Euphoria,” Lamar launched a scathing attack on Drake, mocking his parenting skills and fashion sense. From questioning Drake’s authenticity to hinting at plastic surgery rumors, Lamar left no stone unturned in his pointed dissection of his rival.
Lamar Strikes Back with “6:16 in LA”
Responding to Drake’s provocations, Lamar dropped “6:16 in LA,” a track packed with references and wordplay. By incorporating collaborators like Jack Antonoff, known for working with Taylor Swift, Lamar escalated the feud with veiled yet biting lyrics aimed squarely at Drake.
Drake’s Explosive Release of “Family Matters”
Drake’s “Family Matters” didn’t hold back, featuring shocking allegations against Lamar, including claims of abuse towards his wife and insinuations about his personal life. The accompanying music video added visual punches, keeping the feud intense and public.
Lamar’s Swift Response with “Meet the Grahams”
Lamar swiftly countered Drake’s accusations in “Family Matters” with “Meet the Grahams,” delving into Drake’s personal life and family dynamics. The track painted a dark portrait of Drake, challenging his character and integrity.
Lamar’s Continued Assault in “Not Like Us”
Continuing his onslaught, Lamar released “Not Like Us,” delving deeper into Drake’s personal affairs and alleged misdeeds. From Drake’s love life rumors to controversies surrounding his associates, Lamar’s lyrics cut deep, fueling the feud further.
Drake’s Defiant Response in “The Heart Part 6”
Drake hit back with “The Heart Part 6,” addressing Lamar’s claims and defending himself against the escalating accusations. Refuting Lamar’s allegations and asserting his own narrative, Drake kept the feud alive with his lyrical counterattacks.
Legal Battles and Grammy Wins
The feud extended beyond music, with Drake initiating legal action against UMG over alleged defamation