Kendrick Lamar’s latest music video, “Not Like Us,” is packed with references and subtle (and not-so-subtle) jabs at Drake. This video is more than just a visual feast; it’s a storytelling masterpiece that showcases Lamar’s dominance in the rap game.
Let’s dive into the key elements that make this video a cultural phenomenon.
Push-Ups on Cinder Blocks: A Nod to Drake
The video starts with Lamar doing push-ups on cinder blocks, a clever nod to Drake’s song “Push Ups”. This scene sets the tone for the entire video, hinting that Lamar is physically strong and ready to take on any challenge, especially from his rivals.
Smashing the OVO Owl Piñata
One of the most striking scenes is Lamar smashing an owl piñata, a clear jab at Drake’s OVO owl symbol. The video even includes a cheeky disclaimer: “No OVHoes were harmed during the making of this video”. This moment is both humorous and pointed, showing that Lamar is unafraid to mock Drake’s iconic branding.
Mustard’s Toronto Blue Jays Cap
Lamar’s producer, Mustard, is seen wearing a Toronto Blue Jays cap, another direct reference to Drake, who hails from Toronto. This subtle yet significant detail reinforces the video’s underlying theme of rivalry and competition.
Family Cameo: Whitney Alford and Children
In response to Drake’s song “Family Matters,” which alleged that Lamar’s collaborator Dave Free fathered one of Lamar’s children with Alford, Lamar features his partner Whitney Alford and their children dancing together in the video. This cameo serves as a powerful rebuttal to Drake’s claims and emphasizes Lamar’s strong family values.
Owl References Galore
Throughout the video, there are numerous visual references to owls, the bird associated with Drake’s OVO label. From shots of an owl resting on Lamar’s arm to an owl in a cage, these images serve as recurring motifs that remind viewers of the ongoing feud.
Iconic Locations: Tam’s Burgers and Compton Courthouse
The video features locations like Tam’s Burgers and the Compton courthouse, with over 1,000 fans witnessing the video shoot. These iconic settings not only ground the video in Lamar’s hometown but also highlight his deep connection to his roots.
West Coast Hip-Hop Cameos
Lamar is joined by several West Coast hip-hop figures, including Mustard, YG, Schoolboy Q, Jay Rock, Ab-Soul, Steve Lacy, Roddy Ricch, DeMar DeRozan, and Thundercat. These appearances emphasize the unity and strength of the West Coast hip-hop community, further solidifying Lamar’s status as a leading figure in the genre.
A Victory Lap for Lamar
“Not Like Us” is more than just a music video; it’s a victory lap for Lamar, who emerged victorious from his feud with Drake earlier this year. The song reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and is a strong contender for Song of the Summer. This video, with its rich tapestry of references and jabs, showcases Lamar’s lyrical prowess and his ability to tell a compelling story through visuals.
Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” is a masterclass in using music videos as a medium for storytelling and cultural commentary. By weaving in references and jabs at Drake, Lamar not only entertains but also asserts his dominance in the rap game, proving once again why he’s one of the most influential artists of our time.