Out of the numerous musical revolutions and discoveries of this summer, “Not Like Us” by Kendrick Lamar seemed to find its place in many hearts amidst the drama between Drake and Kendrick.
“Not Like Us” serves as an anti-Drake anthem, calling out the rapper for his rumored history related to sexual misconduct and pedophilia. Although released on May 4, the two rappers have a history through past diss-tracks. With years of alleged jabs between the rappers, the drama truly came to a head in Lamar’s response to Drake’s “Push Ups” with “euphoria” and “6:16 in LA,” both released just days before “Not Like Us.”
“Not Like Us” features handfuls of creative-yet-scathing insults, accusing Drake of pedophilia. Lyrics such as “hide your lil’ sister from him” and “certified Lover Boy? Certified pedophile,” and most renowned “tryna’ struck a chord and it’s probably A-Minor” brutally shove Drake’s name into the dirt.
Paired with the catchy lines, the unique instrumentals with heavy flute and violin tones pull together the diss-track beautifully. Its innovative use of woodwinds and string instruments mean there is no dull part of the song. Using softer-toned instruments in a heavier-themed song was an excellent artistic move.
Along with the release of “Not Like Us,” its music video featured Lamar’s wife and son happily dancing together in a living room setting, responding to Drake’s accusations that Lamar physically abuses his wife and raises an illegitimate child.
As Lamar nears his headlining of the half-time show of the 2025 Super Bowl, we can expect Drake to start shaking in his boots.
