"Not Like Us" by Kendrick Lamar Lyrics Meaning
Released on May 4, 2024, “Not Like Us” is Kendrick Lamar’s fourth diss track targeting Drake, following “meet the grahams.” It responds to Drake’s controversial use of A.I. vocals of 2Pac and Snoop Dogg. Produced by Mustard with a hyphy-inspired beat, the track accuses Drake of cultural appropriation and sexual misconduct, accusing Drake of inappropriate sexual relationships with minors, escalating their feud. Breaking multiple Spotify records, it debuted at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a global hit. This drake diss track highlights the emotional and moral themes intertwined in Kendrick's lyrics, showcasing the personal significance behind the ongoing feud. Kendrick first performed it live at his Juneteenth event, and the music video premiered on July 4, 2024.
“Not Like Us” is a diss track by Kendrick Lamar, released in May 2024, aimed squarely at Drake. The song is a scathing critique of Drake’s cultural appropriation and his treatment of Atlanta’s hip-hop scene. Kendrick accuses Drake of being a “colonizer” who exploits Atlanta’s rich cultural heritage for personal gain, without truly respecting or contributing to its legacy. Furthermore, Kendrick takes issue with Drake’s perceived disrespect towards the legacy of West Coast hip-hop, a scene that Kendrick himself is deeply rooted in.
Produced by Mustard, a key figure in West Coast hip-hop, the track features a beat that is both minimalist and commanding, allowing Kendrick’s incisive lyrics to take center stage. The lyrics are a potent mix of personal attacks, cultural critiques, and historical references, with Kendrick positioning himself as the defender of hip-hop’s authenticity and integrity. By calling out Drake’s actions, Kendrick reasserts his role as a gatekeeper of the culture, unafraid to challenge those he views as inauthentic.
In “Not Like Us,” Kendrick Lamar returns with razor-sharp lyricism and unfiltered critiques, delivering a scathing takedown of industry pretenses, personal rivalries, and cultural appropriation from Kendrick Lamar's perspective. Over a beat produced by Mustard, Kendrick blends his signature storytelling with raw aggression, creating a track that’s as confrontational as it is thought-provoking. Kendrick references other artists in his lyrics, addressing rivalries and personal relationships within the hip-hop industry. The song positions Kendrick not just as an artist, but as a cultural figure unafraid to challenge the status quo.
The song’s central theme is a clear distinction between Kendrick and those he sees as inauthentic. The hook underscores this sentiment: “They not like us, they not like us, they not like us.” This refrain emphasizes his assertion of superiority, rooted in cultural authenticity and artistic integrity. Kendrick positions himself as a gatekeeper of authenticity, calling out those he views as opportunistic or exploitative, particularly in the context of west coast rap and its legacy.
Kendrick opens with a series of direct, incendiary lines: “Deebo any rap nigga, he a free throw / Man down, call an amberlamps, tell him, ‘Breathe, bro.’” Here, he likens his dominance to Deebo, the feared bully from Friday, signaling his intent to overpower rivals with ease. The verse quickly escalates into personal jabs, particularly at high-profile figures like Drake: “Say, Drake, I hear you like ‘em young / You better not ever go to cell block one.” This line refers to ongoing controversies, painting Drake as morally questionable and exposing the industry’s willingness to overlook such behavior. Kendrick’s sharp commentary doesn’t stop there—he scrutinizes Drake’s associates and cultural affiliations, even implying Drake was intimate with a 'Wayne girl' while Wayne was incarcerated: “Certified Lover Boy? Certified pedophiles.” This unflinching critique calls out the entire persona and those surrounding it, blending humor with biting condemnation. Additionally, Kendrick's diss track 'Not Like Us' criticizes Drake for using AI-generated vocals of Tupac Shakur, suggesting that such actions disrespect Pac and would not be accepted by the Bay Area music scene.
The second verse delves into broader cultural commentary, particularly the exploitation of Atlanta’s hip-hop scene and the influence of Atlanta rappers on mainstream hip-hop: “You run to Atlanta when you need a check balance / Let me break it down for you, this the real nigga challenge.” Here, Kendrick accuses Drake of using Atlanta’s artists to bolster his credibility and maintain relevance. He references several Atlanta icons, such as Future, 21 Savage, and Lil Baby, implying that Drake’s collaborations are transactional rather than genuine: “No, you not a colleague, you a fuckin’ colonizer.” This powerful line frames Drake as someone who profits from Atlanta’s cultural richness without truly contributing to or respecting its legacy. Kendrick's lyrics also suggest that Drake is 'tryna strike' a reaction or connection through his music, highlighting the competitive nature of their feud.
In the third verse, Kendrick broadens his focus, weaving in historical parallels:
"Once upon a time, all of us was in chains / Homie still doubled down callin' us some slaves."
Kendrick draws a line between past exploitation and present-day dynamics in the music industry, suggesting that systemic issues remain entrenched. His critique of cultural commodification reflects his broader message about the importance of preserving integrity in art and community.
The bridge shifts to a taunting, almost playful tone: “Freaky-ass nigga, he a 69 God / Hey, hey, hey, hey, run for your life.” Drake responds to Kendrick's critiques in his music, addressing both the accusations made against him and the ongoing feud with Lamar. This chant-like repetition adds a menacing energy, reinforcing Kendrick’s dominance and dismissive attitude toward those he critiques. The outro’s instructions: “Then step this way, step that way,” transform the song into a rallying cry for authenticity, inviting listeners to align with his values or step aside.
Mustard’s beat provides a steady, stripped-down backdrop that allows Kendrick’s lyrical aggression to take center stage. The production mirrors the song’s confrontational tone, emphasizing rhythm and space to heighten the impact of each line.
The feud between Kendrick Lamar and Drake has been one of the most talked-about rivalries in hip-hop over the past few years. Both rappers have traded diss tracks and personal jabs, each accusing the other of being fake and inauthentic. This ongoing battle has seen high-profile diss tracks like Kendrick’s “The Heart Part 4” and Drake’s “Pound Cake,” each track adding fuel to the fire.
The feud is not just about personal animosity; it’s deeply rooted in cultural and historical contexts. Both Kendrick and Drake draw on their own experiences and the broader experiences of their communities to make their points. Kendrick, with his West Coast roots, often emphasizes cultural authenticity and integrity, while Drake, with his more global appeal, is frequently accused of cultural appropriation. This clash of perspectives has made their rivalry not just a personal battle, but a broader commentary on the state of hip-hop and its cultural dynamics.
“Not Like Us” has made a significant impact on the hip-hop community, with many praising Kendrick’s unparalleled lyrical skill and his ability to craft a compelling narrative. The track is seen as a powerful statement about the importance of cultural authenticity and the need for artists to be mindful of their cultural heritage. Kendrick’s fearless critique has resonated with fans and critics alike, solidifying his reputation as a truth-teller in the industry.
The song has also been recognized by West Coast hip-hop legends like Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre, who view it as a unifying force in a community often divided by rivalry. Despite the initial controversy surrounding its release, “Not Like Us” has captured the attention of hip-hop icons, who see it as a catalyst for bringing together the West Coast hip-hop community. By challenging industry norms and calling out exploitative practices, Kendrick has once again proven his commitment to authenticity and accountability in hip-hop.
“Not Like Us” is a masterclass in lyrical confrontation. Kendrick Lamar pulls no punches, combining personal jabs, cultural critique, and historical reflection to craft a track that’s as provocative as it is incisive. By challenging industry norms and calling out exploitative practices, Kendrick reasserts his position as a cultural vanguard.
This track isn’t just a diss—it’s a declaration of Kendrick’s commitment to authenticity and a call for accountability in hip-hop. With its unapologetic tone and sharp commentary, “Not Like Us” cements Kendrick Lamar’s legacy as both a lyrical titan and a fearless truth-teller.
