Kendrick Lamar has recently made waves with the release of his “Not Like Us” music video, a bold statement in his ongoing feud with Drake. The video, which has gone video viral, not only showcases Lamar’s artistic prowess but also contains several pointed jabs at his rival. This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of the video, the symbolism behind it, and the implications for both artists.
What Happened: The Release of “Not Like Us”
Kendrick Lamar’s Newest Track
Kendrick Lamar released his latest diss track, “Not Like Us”, taking his long-standing feud with Drake to new heights. The lasted update in this saga comes in the form of a visually compelling music video that Lamar co-directed with Dave Free. The video opens with an intense scene where Tommy the Clown lets Lamar into a metallic room, setting the tone for the rest of the visual narrative.
The Setting and Symbolism
The video is filled with powerful imagery, starting with Lamar doing push-ups on cinder blocks, a likely reference to Drake’s own “Push Ups”. This opening scene is symbolic of Lamar’s strength and resilience, positioning him as a fighter both literally and metaphorically. The choice of setting also pays homage to Lamar’s hometown of Compton, featuring iconic locations such as city hall and Tam’s Burgers.
The Feud Escalates: Direct Jabs at Drake
Smashing the Owl Piñata
One of the most talked-about moments in the video is when Lamar smashes an owl piñata. This act is a direct attack on Drake, whose OVO brand prominently features an owl symbol. A disclaimer in the video humorously states, “no OVHoes were harmed during the making of this video,” further intensifying the diss.
The Symbolism of the Caged Owl
The final shot of the video shows an owl in a cage, symbolizing Drake’s confinement and defeat. This imagery suggests that Lamar sees himself as the victor in their feud, having metaphorically caged his opponent. The use of the owl, which is so closely associated with Drake’s identity, makes this message all the more powerful.
The OVO Owl: Understanding the Symbolism
The Design of the OVO Logo
The OVO (October’s Very Own) brand, founded by Canadian rapper Drake, uses an owl as its primary symbol. The logo is cleverly designed with the two “O”s resembling the eyes of an owl and the “V” representing the beak. This visual representation of an owl’s face is a key aspect of the brand’s identity.
Nocturnal Lifestyle and Greek Mythology
Owls are nocturnal animals, which Drake has linked to his own “nocturnal lifestyle”, suggesting that he “comes alive” at night. Additionally, in Greek mythology, the owl is a symbol of wisdom. Some interpret this as representing the thoughtfulness and depth in Drake’s music. However, these interpretations are secondary to the primary visual connection.
The Bohemian Grove Connection
There are also speculations about a connection between the OVO owl and the owl statue at the Bohemian Grove, a site associated with elite groups. While intriguing, this link is considered far-fetched and is not a primary reason for the owl’s use in the OVO brand.
Impact of the Music Video: Public and Industry Reactions
Fans’ Response to the Video Viral
The video viral success of “Not Like Us” has garnered millions of views and a wide range of reactions. Fans of Kendrick Lamar praised the creativity and boldness of the video, while Drake’s supporters were quick to defend their favorite artist. The visual narrative and direct disses have fueled discussions and debates across social media platforms.
Industry Reactions
The music industry has also taken notice, with various artists and critics weighing in on the video. Some see it as a masterful piece of art that pushes the boundaries of music videos, while others view it as an unnecessary escalation of the feud. Regardless of the opinion, it is clear that Lamar’s video has made a significant impact.
The Evolution of the Kendrick Lamar and Drake Feud
Origins of the Feud
The feud between Kendrick Lamar and Drake dates back several years, with both artists taking subtle and not-so-subtle shots at each other through their music. This latest release by Lamar is one of the most direct and provocative moves in their ongoing rivalry.
Previous Diss Tracks and Interactions
Prior to “Not Like Us”, both rappers have released tracks that include veiled references to one another. Lamar’s verse on “Control” and Drake’s “Two Birds, One Stone” are notable examples. Each track has added fuel to the fire, building up to the current climax with Lamar’s latest video.
Kendrick Lamar’s Artistic Vision: A Closer Look
Co-Directing with Dave Free
Lamar’s decision to co-direct the “Not Like Us” music video with Dave Free has resulted in a visually stunning piece of art. The direction is sharp, with a clear focus on narrative and symbolism. This collaboration has allowed Lamar to fully express his creative vision and deliver a compelling message.
Visual and Narrative Elements
The video uses a mix of light and shadow, dynamic camera angles, and fast-paced editing to create an intense atmosphere. Each frame is carefully crafted to enhance the overall narrative and underscore the themes of strength, resilience, and victory.
Future Implications for Both Artists
Kendrick Lamar’s Career Trajectory
The release of “Not Like Us” has solidified Kendrick Lamar’s position as one of the most innovative and fearless artists in the industry. His willingness to take risks and push boundaries sets him apart and continues to earn him respect and admiration.
Drake’s Response and Next Moves
The ball is now in Drake’s court. His response to Lamar’s video will be closely watched by fans and critics alike. Whether he chooses to retaliate with his own diss track or take a different approach, his next move will be crucial in shaping the future of their feud.
Conclusion: The Legacy of “Not Like Us”
A Defining Moment in Hip-Hop
Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” music video is more than just a diss track; it is a defining moment in hip-hop. The video’s success and the conversations it has sparked highlight the power of visual storytelling in music. As Lamar continues to innovate and challenge the status quo, his influence on the industry grows stronger.
The Power of Symbolism
The use of the owl and other symbolic elements in the video demonstrates the power of visual metaphors in conveying complex messages. By incorporating these elements, Lamar has created a multi-layered narrative that resonates with viewers on multiple levels.
Final Thoughts
In the end, “Not Like Us” stands as a testament to Kendrick Lamar’s artistry and his ability to captivate and provoke thought. As the lasted update in his feud with Drake, it leaves a lasting impression and sets the stage for whatever comes next in this ongoing saga.