The Drake and Kendrick Lamar Feud: A Comprehensive Timeline

February 4, 2025: A comprehensive breakdown of some of what’s been said in the studio, on social media and now on stage since Kendrick Lamar released his “Like That” verse

The rivalry between Drake and Kendrick Lamar has been a defining narrative in the hip-hop community, marked by a series of diss tracks, public statements, and legal disputes. Here’s a detailed timeline of their feud:

2013: Early Tensions Emerge

In 2013, Kendrick Lamar released “Control,” a track that included a verse challenging several rappers, including Drake. While not a direct diss, the song ignited discussions about competition and respect within the rap industry.

October 2023: The “First Person Shooter” Incident

The feud intensified in October 2023 when Drake and J. Cole released “First Person Shooter,” a song suggesting they, along with Lamar, were the “big three” of rap. Kendrick Lamar refuted this claim in March 2024 with the track “Like That,” escalating the rivalry.

March 2024: Kendrick Lamar’s Response

Kendrick Lamar released “Like That,” directly addressing Drake and J. Cole, challenging their assertions and reigniting tensions between the artists.

April 2024: The Release of “Not Like Us”

Kendrick Lamar released “Not Like Us,” a diss track targeting Drake. The song garnered significant attention and controversy, leading to legal actions and public disputes.

May 2024: Drake’s Legal Actions

In response to “Not Like Us,” Drake filed lawsuits against Universal Music Group (UMG), alleging defamation and manipulation of streaming numbers. He claimed that UMG used illegal tactics to artificially inflate the popularity of the song and failed to halt its release.

February 2025: Grammy Awards

At the 2025 Grammy Awards, Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” won five awards, including Record of the Year and Song of the Year. This marked a significant moment in the feud, with Lamar’s track receiving critical acclaim despite the ongoing legal disputes.

Ongoing Tensions

As of February 2025, the feud remains unresolved, with both artists continuing to release music that addresses their rivalry. The conflict has sparked widespread discussions about competition, respect, and the nature of beefs in the hip-hop industry.

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Published by HOLR Magazine

Sources: Karwai Tang/WireImage ; Arturo Holmes/MG23/Getty

Image Credit: BANG SHOWBIZ