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In a pivotal moment for rap history, Kendrick Lamar debuted his Drake-dismantling anthem “Not Like Us” at his Juneteenth concert, The Pop Out: Ken & Friends, held at Los Angeles’ Kia Forum. Announced just two weeks prior, the event was livestreamed on Twitch by Amazon Music.
Performing the track five times, each rendition grew more explosive. Lamar paused dramatically during the first rendition, challenging the crowd with the provocative “A Minor” lyric aimed at Drake. The second rendition saw Lamar letting the audience take the lead, while the third was electrified with fiery pyrotechnics and a boisterous chant of “O-V-Ho'”. For the fourth performance, a star-studded stage filled with fellow artists like YG, Steve Lacy, and Roddy Ricch joined in, creating a dynamic and collaborative atmosphere. Kendrick’s fifth performance was a culmination of energy, with him weaving through dancers and fellow performers.
Earlier in the set, Lamar set the stage with his initial Drake diss track “Euphoria”, followed by other hits like “DNA”, “Alright”, and “King Kunta”. Throughout the show, he was accompanied by former label mates Jay Rock, Ab-Soul, and ScHoolboy Q, adding to the nostalgic and powerful vibe of the evening.
While some argued Kendrick could have omitted “Not Like Us” to focus solely on celebration, he instead embraced the controversial track, using it as a catalyst to unite L.A.’s diverse hip-hop community. Addressing the audience, Lamar emphasized the importance of solidarity and collaboration across different neighborhoods and factions within the city’s rap scene.
The impact of “Not Like Us” was undeniable, debuting at Number One on the Hot 100 and topping Billboard’s Rythmic Airplay chart. The song’s lyrics, accusing Drake of serious allegations, sparked a notable exchange of diss tracks between the two artists, further igniting the rap world’s attention.
Overall, Kendrick Lamar’s Juneteenth concert not only showcased his musical prowess but also underscored his role in fostering unity and resilience within the hip-hop community. It marked a significant moment in his ongoing artistic journey and the broader cultural landscape of rap music.
