This marks a significant moment in the rivalry between Kendrick and Drake, with the song breaking numerous streaming records and earning five Grammy nominations. Apple Music’s decision highlights the critical and popular success of Kendrick’s diss track aimed at Drake.

The History Behind the Feud

The tension between Kendrick Lamar and Drake began in 2013 and has escalated through the years. Both artists have released multiple tracks directed at each other, including Kendrick’s Euphoria and Meet the Grahams, while Drake responded with First Person Shooter and Taylor Made Freestyle. Their rivalry has been a defining feature of modern rap, captivating fans and critics alike.

Drake’s Legal Actions Against Universal Music Group

Amid the success of Kendrick’s Not Like Us, Drake has filed a lawsuit against Universal Music Group (UMG), accusing the label of manipulating streaming data to inflate the track’s popularity. He alleges that UMG used bots and pay-to-play schemes to artificially boost Kendrick’s song. In response, UMG dismissed the claims as baseless and emphasized their ethical practices in marketing.

Streaming Success of Not Like Us

Kendrick’s track has enjoyed unprecedented success. It debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and dominated the Billboard Rap Songs chart for 21 weeks. With over 900 million streams on Spotify alone, the song has cemented its place as a cultural phenomenon. It was also named the top song of 2024 by Pitchfork, further solidifying Kendrick’s dominance in the rap game.

Drake’s Standing in the Charts

While Kendrick’s Not Like Us soared, Drake’s track Rich Baby Daddy, featuring SZA and Sexyy Red, peaked at number 26 on Spotify’s global charts. Despite his legal battles and allegations of unfair practices, Drake remains one of the most influential figures in music. However, this latest chapter in their rivalry suggests a shift in public and industry perception.

Public Reactions and Industry Implications

The feud between Kendrick Lamar and Drake continues to captivate fans worldwide. With Kendrick’s record-breaking success and Apple Music’s endorsement, the scales seem to tip in his favor. Meanwhile, Drake’s legal challenges and claims of manipulation have sparked debates about the ethics of streaming platforms and record labels.