Kendrick Lamar has once again taken the music world by storm with the release of his latest video, “Not Like Us”. This video, which has gone video viral, is a significant addition to his ongoing feud with fellow rapper Drake. Co-directed with Dave Free, the video is a bold display of Lamar’s hometown pride and his lyrical dominance. In this comprehensive article, we dive into the details of the video, its symbolism, and its impact on the rap game.
What Happened: The Release of “Not Like Us”
A Bold Statement
Released on July 4th, Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” video is a powerful artistic statement. The video opens with Lamar delivering a short freestyle before transitioning into scenes of celebration in his hometown of Compton. This sets the stage for a series of events that underline Lamar’s roots and his ongoing feud with Drake.
The Setting: Compton Celebrations
The video features Lamar dancing with producer DJ Mustard and hundreds of fans at various iconic locations around Compton, including city hall and Tam’s Burgers. The choice of setting is significant, as it highlights Lamar’s deep connection to his community and his pride in his origins.
Subtle Jabs at Drake: The Owl Symbolism
Smashing the Owl Piñata
One of the most talked-about scenes in the “Not Like Us” video is when Lamar attacks an owl-shaped piñata. This is a clear reference to Drake’s OVO (October’s Very Own) label, which prominently features an owl symbol. The act of smashing the piñata is a direct jab at Drake and his brand.
The Caged Owl
The final shot of the video shows a live owl confined in a cage, furthering the symbolism. This imagery suggests that Lamar sees Drake as being trapped and confined, while Lamar himself is free and dominant. The use of the owl, which is closely associated with Drake’s identity, makes this message even more powerful.
The OVO Owl: Understanding the Symbolism
The OVO Logo Design
The OVO (October’s Very Own) brand, founded by Drake, uses an owl as its primary symbol. The logo is designed with two “O”s resembling the eyes of an owl and a “V” representing the beak. This clever visual representation 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.
The Impact of “Not Like Us”: 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.