In a dramatic turn of events following Kendrick Lamar’s electrifying Super Bowl halftime performance, reactions from the hip-hop community—especially among Black celebrities—have sparked widespread chatter about the ongoing feud between Lamar and Drake. The performance, which many viewed as a definitive statement from Kendrick, has left Drake seemingly isolated within the community he once dominated.
LeBron James emerged as one of Kendrick’s most vocal supporters, sharing on his Instagram that he was eager to witness Kendrick’s performance, referring to it in a way that suggested a sense of vindication in the ongoing rivalry. This comes after Drake publicly expressed feelings of betrayal when LeBron sided with Kendrick, even going so far as to expose alleged secrets about LeBron’s personal life through social media. The fallout from their friendship appears to have deepened the rift, with LeBron’s support for Kendrick intensifying the narrative against Drake.
Snoop Dogg, despite previous tensions with Kendrick, also threw his weight behind the performance, sharing a video of Kendrick’s show and declaring it “gangster.” Meanwhile, DJ Academics took a different stance, criticizing Kendrick’s performance and labeling the outpouring of support as “anti-Drake grifting.” He accused fans of lacking originality in their admiration for Kendrick, reflecting a division in public opinion regarding the two artists.
Boozy Badazz offered a nuanced perspective, congratulating Kendrick while also hinting that Louisiana artists deserved recognition on such a grand stage. He speculated on Drake’s feelings of betrayal, noting the irony of Kendrick’s rise after Drake had helped elevate many artists’ careers. However, social media reactions indicate a collective acknowledgment of Kendrick’s prowess during the performance, with comments highlighting the significance of his statement against Drake.
Tiger, another notable figure in the hip-hop community, was seen enjoying Kendrick’s performance, while Jamie Foxx hosted a Super Bowl party where his family celebrated Kendrick’s set. Chris Brown, too, expressed his admiration for Kendrick, calling the performance “wow,” showcasing how the industry is rallying around Lamar.
Kendrick’s ex-girlfriend, SZA, also joined him on stage, further amplifying the emotional weight of the performance as she praised him as a “prophet” for his artistry. The unity among Kendrick’s crew, including Jrock and Killer Mike, showcased an unwavering support system that contrasted sharply with the tensions surrounding Drake.
50 Cent weighed in with his endorsement of Kendrick’s rightful place at the Super Bowl, emphasizing that Kendrick’s recent achievements have cemented his status in the hip-hop hierarchy. The general sentiment across social media seems to suggest that Kendrick has not only won the battle but is also emerging as the king of rap, with many declaring the beef with Drake as transcending mere rivalry.
As this saga unfolds, the question remains: will the tension between Drake and Kendrick ignite further conflict, or has Kendrick Lamar firmly established his dominance in the current rap landscape? The reactions from the hip-hop community indicate a significant shift in support, with Kendrick’s Super Bowl performance marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing narrative of modern hip-hop.