In hip-hop, competition and rivalry have always been part of the game. 

Recently, two of the biggest names in the industry, Kendrick Lamar and Drake took their tensions to the next level through a series of diss tracks that have captured the attention of music fans everywhere. 

“I know quite a bit… I’ve heard that it’s been as far back as 2013, but it’s been reignited recently,” senior Luis Lozano said.

In 2013, Kendrick called out several rappers, including Drake, in his verse on Big Sean’s “Control.” Since then, both artists have publicly criticized each other in their music, interviews and public appearances. 

The back-and-forth between Kendrick and Drake has sparked widespread debate among their fans. Some people believe Kendrick is right to call out what he sees as a lack of substance in today’s rap music. 

“I’m on Kendrick’s side. Drake’s been known to have been creepy towards little girls for a couple of years now,” Lozano said. “People in the industry… haven’t really been speaking about it until recently when Kendrick finally took a stand, and I think that’s really cool. And he’s also accusing Drake of maybe having a secret daughter, which would be really funny.”

The rivalry is more than just a clash of egos; it reflects larger discussions in the hip-hop community about what the genre should represent. 

Kendrick Lamar is often seen as the torchbearer of conscious rap. He focuses on deep, thought-provoking themes and won the 2017 Pulitzer Prize. On the other hand, Drake is known for his catchy hooks an

d versatile style that blends rap with R&B.

As the diss tracks continue circulating, fans are watching to see who will have the last word. 

“I’m a die heart Kendrick fan, always have been always will be. I feel like Kendrick kind of out classed Drake in every kind of way like that you can judge a music artist,” junior Isabella Skeen said.

Will Kendrick and Drake eventually squash their beef and collaborate, or will this rivalry push them to create even more compelling music?