Kendrick Lamar Not Like Us Breakdown

Image Credit: Moffly (depositphotos.com)
Kendrick Lamar dropped “Not Like Us” on May 4, marking another intense chapter in his ongoing feud with Drake.
What began as playful rivalry sparked by J. Cole’s comment about them being the “big three” of modern Hip Hop has evolved into something much more heated.
Kendrick seems to hold a deep-seated grudge against Drake and takes no prisoners in this track, making personal attacks and airing out accusations.
The latest exchange has leaned the public’s favor towards Kendrick, especially following his previous diss, “Meet the Grahams.”
The song’s beat, crafted by Mustard and Sounwave, complements Kendrick’s fierce delivery with a pounding, urgent tempo driven by strong snares and bass.
The track opens with a chilling line that references the movie Sixth Sense, before Kendrick launches into a series of insults and accusations against Drake.
He accuses Drake of inappropriate relationships, adding weight to rumors that have followed the Toronto rapper.
Kendrick’s sharp lyrics and aggressive tone drive the point home, making “Not Like Us” a critical moment in their ongoing rivalry.
J. Cole & Lil Wayne Relationship
Lil Wayne and J. Cole share a unique and noteworthy relationship in the hip-hop world. Their bond is built on mutual respect and admiration, extending beyond mere musical collaboration.
Early Collaboration
The connection began with J. Cole often citing Lil Wayne as one of his primary influences.
Early in his career, Cole looked up to Wayne’s prolific output and unique style. This admiration eventually led to collaborations, solidifying their bond as fellow artists.
Mutual Respect
Lil Wayne has consistently praised J. Cole’s lyrical prowess and storytelling abilities.
Wayne acknowledges that Cole brings a certain depth and intelligence to his music that resonates deeply with listeners.
This respect is mutual, as Cole often speaks highly of Wayne, emphasizing his impact on the hip-hop scene and his personal growth as an artist.
“Green Ranger” and Other Tracks
One of the notable collaborations between them is the track “Green Ranger.” In this song, both rappers shine with their distinct styles.
It’s a mix of Wayne’s creative wordplay and Cole’s sharp lyricism. The track is celebrated by fans as a perfect blend of their talents.
Part of the Same Circle
Though they come from different eras in rap, they often find themselves in overlapping circles within the industry.
Their interactions are usually positive, and they share a camaraderie that’s evident in interviews and joint appearances.
They both respect the craft and often push each other to new creative heights.
Support During Controversies
Lil Wayne has often stood by J. Cole during controversies.
Their bond was clear when Wayne publicly supported Cole during beefs and other industry clashes.
This support was not always about taking sides but more about standing up for each other in times of need and maintaining respect for one another.
Influences and Inspirations
Wayne’s influence on Cole is undeniable.
Cole has mentioned in various interviews how Wayne’s fearless approach to music, his experimental ventures, and his lyrical skills have inspired him.
On the flip side, Wayne has drawn from Cole’s introspective style and ability to weave intricate narratives, incorporating deeper themes into his projects.
Live Performances and Tours
They have also shared stages, much to the delight of their fans.
Their joint performances reflect a synergy that’s hard to miss. On tour, they bring out the best in each other, creating memorable moments for their audiences.
Consistent Acknowledgement
Both artists consistently acknowledge each other in interviews and social media, reminding everyone of their ongoing friendship and professional respect.
This mutual admiration keeps their relationship strong and allows them to collaborate seamlessly on future projects.
Healthy Competition
Their relationship is also marked by healthy competition.
This competition pushes both to elevate their artistry. Their mutual drive ensures that each new project they embark on is better than the last, benefiting fans and the hip-hop community alike.
Shared Values and Advocacy
Beyond music, Wayne and Cole share values and advocate for similar causes.
Whether it’s addressing social issues through their lyrics or participating in charitable projects, they often align in their efforts to use their platforms for good.
This shared mission further bonds them and reflects in their actions and words.
Influence on Their Careers
The influence they’ve had on each other’s careers is significant. Wayne’s endorsement helped Cole gain recognition in his early days. Meanwhile, Cole has brought fresh perspectives to Wayne’s music. This interplay of ideas and styles has enriched both their musical journeys.