The feud between Drake and Kendrick Lamar is one of the biggest rivalries in hip-hop today. It started in 2013 and has grown stronger over the years with many diss tracks, public comments, and legal fights.
How It Started (2011–2013)
Drake and Kendrick first worked well together after collaborating in 2011. But in 2013, Kendrick released a verse on Big Sean’s song “Control” where he called out several rappers, including Drake. This caused tension between them, even though Kendrick said it was meant as friendly competition.
Years of Subtle Shots (2013–2023)
For many years, both artists denied having a feud. Still, they took subtle shots at each other in their songs. In 2023, the three top rappers—Drake, Kendrick, and J. Cole—were called the “big three” of hip-hop in a song by J. Cole and Drake.
The Feud Heats Up (2024)
In March 2024, Kendrick released a song called “Like That,” where he rejected the “big three” label and claimed he was the best rapper. Drake took this as a challenge and responded with diss tracks like “Push Ups” and “Taylor Made Freestyle“.
Kendrick fired back with songs “Euphoria” and “6:16 in LA,” attacking Drake’s character. The feud got personal when Drake accused Kendrick of domestic abuse and claimed that Kendrick’s producer fathered Kendrick’s child. Kendrick replied by accusing Drake of being a sexual predator and hiding a secret daughter.
Later in 2024, Kendrick’s album GNX included songs that clearly targeted Drake, making the feud even more intense.
Legal Battles and Public Moments (2024–2025)
In early 2025, Drake sued Universal Music Group, accusing them of helping Kendrick by boosting his streaming numbers unfairly. Universal denied this.
Kendrick also headlined the 2025 Super Bowl Halftime Show, a big moment during the feud. Drake kept touring and proving his place in the music world despite the ongoing rivalry.
Drake vs Kendrick Lamar Beef Timeline
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 2013 | Kendrick’s “Control” verse calls out Drake |
| 2023 | Drake and J. Cole call Kendrick part of the “big three” |
| March 2024 | Kendrick’s “Like That” rejects “big three” label, targets Drake |
| April 2024 | Drake releases “Push Ups” and “Taylor Made Freestyle” |
| May 2024 | Kendrick responds with “Euphoria” and “6:16 in LA” |
| May 2024 | Drake’s “Family Matters” and Kendrick’s “Meet the Grahams” exchange serious accusations |
| Nov 2024 | Kendrick’s GNX album reignites feud |
| Jan 2025 | Drake sues Universal Music Group |
| Feb 2025 | Kendrick wins Grammys; Drake asserts career longevity |
| June 2025 | Kendrick headlines Super Bowl Halftime Show |
The Drake vs. Kendrick Lamar feud is a major story in hip-hop. It involves music battles, personal accusations, and legal fights. Fans continue to watch closely as both rappers defend their place at the top of the music world.
