06-07-2025
Drake Reflects on Feud with Kendrick in 'What Did I Miss?'
Drake Releases New Track 'What Did I Miss?' Reflecting on Feud with Kendrick Lamar
Drake has unveiled his latest single, 'What Did I Miss?', a powerful and introspective track exploring his long-standing feud with fellow rapper Kendrick Lamar. Co-produced by DJ Lewis, Elyas, FNZ, Gyz, London Cyr, O Lil Angel, Oz, Patron, and Tay Keith, the song dives into themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the lasting impact of the beef on his relationships and career.
Drake's Reflections on Loyalty and Betrayal
Opening with poignant lines that address the fallout from the feud, Drake begins 'What Did I Miss?' with reflective lyrics:
'Askin' me, 'How did it feel?' Can't say it didn't surprise me/Last time I looked to my right, you n****s was standing beside me/How can some people I love hang around pussies who try me?'
These verses highlight the emotional toll the conflict has taken on him, while also pointing to the shifting allegiances of those he once trusted. Further into the track, Drake delivers the powerful line: 'It's love for my brothers and death to a traitor, let's go.' This sets the tone for the rest of the song as a declaration of loyalty to those who remain by his side.
Kendrick Lamar's 'Pop Out' Concert and Its Role in the Feud
In the second verse, Drake references Kendrick Lamar's high-profile 'Pop Out' concert in Inglewood, California—a pivotal moment in the beef. The event featured performances and appearances by artists who were once close collaborators with Drake, including YG, Mustard, and Ty Dolla $ign. In 'What Did I Miss?', Drake calls out these interactions:
'I saw bro went to Pop Out with them, but been dick-riding gang since 'Headlines.''
This line hints at feelings of betrayal as Drake reflects on how Lamar's alliances have reshaped the dynamics of friendships in the industry.
Reignition of the Feud in Recent Collaborations
The longstanding Drake-Kendrick Lamar rivalry was reignited when Lamar delivered subtle jabs at Drake on Future and Metro Boomin's track 'Like That.' The collaboration between Future, Metro Boomin, and Kendrick raised eyebrows, especially since Future and Metro Boomin were historically aligned with Drake. Their involvement in Kendrick's diss track fueled the narrative of abandoning past loyalties.
Other high-profile artists also became embroiled in the feud as alliances shifted. The Weeknd's appearance on the Future and Metro Boomin song "We Still Don't Trust You" further underscored divided loyalties. Rick Ross joined the fray with his diss track 'Champagne Moments', targeting Drake and aligning himself with Lamar's camp.
Drake's Solo Work and Ongoing Legal Battle
'What Did I Miss?' stands out as a rare solo track from Drake, following his suite of anti-Lamar releases in 2024. The song is released via Drake's label OVO Sound and licensed to Republic Records, which operates under Universal Music Group (UMG).
Interestingly, Drake is currently suing UMG for defamation. He alleges that the corporation orchestrated a campaign to promote Kendrick Lamar's mega-hit 'Not Like Us', a track he claims spreads false narratives about him. His legal battle adds another dimension to the feud, as Drake continues to assert his stance both through music and in courtrooms.
Impact of the Feud on the Hip-Hop Landscape
The ongoing feud between Drake and Kendrick Lamar is more than a clash of two rap titans; it's become a defining chapter in modern hip-hop. With collaborators and peers choosing sides, the rift has highlighted the complexities of loyalty, rivalry, and influence within the music industry.
Drake's new single 'What Did I Miss?' serves as both a musical catharsis and a sharp critique of the unfolding drama, proving once again his ability to intertwine personal turmoil with lyrical brilliance.
