Drake Releases New Single “What Did I Miss?” Amid Ongoing Feud with Kendrick Lamar
Toronto rapper Drake has dropped his latest track, “What Did I Miss?,” a bold reflection on his ongoing feud with fellow artist Kendrick Lamar. The song, co-produced by a diverse roster of producers including DJ Lewis, Elyas, FNZ, Gyz, and Tay Keith, features potent lyrics that explore the intricacies of loyalty and betrayal within personal relationships.
Key Lyrics and Themes
The song opens with Drake addressing the fallout from his rivalry with Lamar, stating, “Askin’ me, ‘How did it feel?’ Can’t say it didn’t surprise me.” This introduction sets a confrontational tone, highlighting Drake’s feelings of betrayal by those close to him during this turbulent period. In a poignant line, he questions how loved ones can associate with people who challenge him: “How can some people I love hang around pussies who try me?” These lines capture a sense of confusion and disappointment in the loyalty of those he once considered allies.
Drake escalates the intensity in his first verse, rapping, “It’s love for my brothers and death to a traitor, let’s go.” This stark choice of words emphasizes the serious emotional stakes involved, framing the conflict not just as a professional rivalry but a deeply personal struggle.
References to Kendrick Lamar and the Broader Context
In the second verse, Drake draws attention to Kendrick Lamar’s Pop Out concert in Inglewood, California, where Lamar seemingly targeted Drake through indirect jabs. The concert featured several artists who have collaborated with Drake in the past, including YG, Mustard, and Ty Dolla $ign. Drake’s remark, “I saw bro went to Pop Out with them, but been dick-riding gang since ‘Headlines,’” encapsulates the complexities of musical alliances and rivalries, further fueling speculation about artist loyalty within the industry.
The conflict between Drake and Lamar reignited after Lamar made subtle digs at Drake in Future and Metro Boomin’s track “Like That.” This shift prompted a ripple effect, drawing other prominent figures such as The Weeknd and Rick Ross into the fray. The Weeknd’s collaboration on Future’s track “We Still Don’t Trust You” raised eyebrows, as it suggested a shift in his allegiances.
Legal Troubles and Industry Dynamics
“What Did I Miss?” marks a rare solo release from Drake following the suite of anti-Lamar tracks he unveiled in 2024. The song is released under Drake’s OVO Sound and is licensed to Republic Records, a subsidiary of Universal Music Group (UMG). However, tensions also arise from Drake’s ongoing legal challenge against UMG, where he is suing for defamation. He alleges that the label has systematically promoted Lamar’s mega-hit “Not Like Us,” which he claims is misleading and filled with falsehoods.
Broader Implications
This new release not only adds fuel to the fire of the Drake-Lamar conflict but also reflects the intricate relationships and tensions within the music industry. As artists navigate their careers and personal rivalries, tracks like “What Did I Miss?” underscore the emotional weight of loyalty and betrayal in a highly competitive landscape.
The song’s release invites fans to contemplate the complexities of these relationships, as well as the broader impact of personal grievances on artistic expression. As Drake continues to navigate his evolving career, “What Did I Miss?” serves as a reminder of the stakes involved, not just for the artists themselves, but for their fans and collaborators as well.
Listeners can check out the song here: Listen to “What Did I Miss?”.
In conclusion, Drake’s latest single is more than just a track; it’s a resonant commentary on the personal ramifications of rivalry in the music world, poised to keep both fans and critics engaged in this unfolding saga.
