Kendrick Lamar and Drake’s longstanding feud reached a new height during the 2025 Super Bowl halftime show, where Lamar performed his controversial track “Not Like Us.” This song, released in May 2024, escalated tensions between the two artists by making serious allegations against Drake.
Background of the Feud
The rivalry between Kendrick Lamar and Drake began in 2013, initially marked by mutual respect and collaboration. However, over the years, their relationship soured, with both artists releasing tracks that subtly and overtly criticized each other. In May 2024, Lamar released “Not Like Us,” a diss track that accused Drake of inappropriate behavior, including pedophilia. The song’s cover art featured a satellite image of Drake’s mansion with markers indicating sexual predators, further intensifying the feud.
“Not Like Us” and Its Impact
“Not Like Us” became a significant point of contention. The track’s explicit allegations and aggressive tone led to widespread discussions and legal actions. Drake responded by releasing “The Heart Part 6,” denying the accusations and suggesting that Lamar’s claims were rooted in his own personal issues. Despite the legal threats, Lamar performed “Not Like Us” during the Super Bowl halftime show, omitting the most controversial line to avoid potential legal repercussions.
The Super Bowl Halftime Show Performance
During the Super Bowl halftime show, Lamar delivered a powerful performance of “Not Like Us.” Before starting, he remarked, “I want to perform their favorite song, but you know they love to sue,” acknowledging the legal threats from Drake. In the performance, Lamar omitted the line directly accusing Drake of pedophilia, likely to avoid further legal complications.
Public and Critical Reactions
The performance garnered mixed reactions. Some fans praised Lamar for his boldness and artistic expression, while others criticized the ongoing feud being aired on such a public stage. Notably, musician Noel Gallagher expressed his disapproval, calling the performance “nonsense” and stating he had to switch it off.
Legal and Personal Implications
The feud has had significant legal and personal implications for both artists. Drake filed a defamation lawsuit against Universal Music Group, alleging that Lamar’s accusations in “Not Like Us” were false and damaging to his reputation. Lamar’s decision to perform the song at the Super Bowl, despite the legal threats, underscores the personal animosity between the two artists.
Conclusion
The Kendrick Lamar and Drake feud, highlighted by the performance of “Not Like Us” at the 2025 Super Bowl halftime show, exemplifies the complex interplay between personal disputes and public performances in the music industry. While the artists have engaged in legal battles and public criticisms, the Super Bowl performance served as a dramatic platform for Lamar to express his grievances, further entrenching the rivalry and leaving fans and critics alike to ponder the future of their relationship.
