Kendrick Lamar and Drake Face Off Again at the 2024 Billboard Music Awards
Kendrick Lamar and Drake, two of rap’s biggest titans, are set to clash once more at the upcoming Billboard Music Awards (BBMAs) on Thursday, December 12. Both artists are nominated in the Top Rap Artist and Top Rap Male Artist categories, continuing a year-long rivalry that has captivated fans. Drake, with his track record of dominance at the BBMAs, is a formidable opponent. His additional nominations in major categories like Top Artist suggest the race might tilt in his favor. However, Kendrick Lamar, fresh off the release of his critically acclaimed and combative album GNX, has his own chances to shine in other, less contested categories.
The BBMAs stand out among award shows for their emphasis on data-driven criteria like streaming numbers, radio airplay, and sales. Drake, often referred to as the “6ix God,” has long been a juggernaut in these metrics, boasting an unparalleled history of wins at the event. Yet, this showdown isn’t solely about awards or sales figures. At its core, the Kendrick-Drake rivalry is a battle of philosophies, lyricism, and, perhaps most notably, ego—a “biggest hater competition” that transcends traditional metrics of success.
Kendrick and Drake: A Year of Clashes
The feud between these two has been anything but subtle this year. Kendrick’s GNX delivered sharp jabs at his rivals, solidifying his reputation as rap’s provocateur. Meanwhile, Drake has taken a more personal and petty approach. During a recent livestream with Twitch star xQc, Drake labeled The Internet guitarist Steve Lacy as a “fragile opp,” prompting Lacy to respond with playful trolling on Instagram.
This feud has also dragged in others by association. Toronto rapper Top5 has taken an anti-West Coast stance, aligning himself with Drake. The rivalry has reached a point where artists and affiliates must pick a side or risk being dragged into the crossfire. It’s a reflection of the polarizing nature of these two superstars, whose rivalry has become a rite of passage in the rap world.
Beyond the BBMAs
The Kendrick-Drake feud isn’t limited to awards or album releases. It’s woven into pop culture moments, including Drake’s controversial comments on xQc’s stream and Kendrick’s explosive performances that call out industry hypocrisy. The feud’s origin—dating back to songs like Kendrick’s “Like That”—continues to shape their narratives and intertwine their legacies.
Looking ahead, the rivalry will persist beyond the BBMAs. Drake’s Australian tour coinciding with the Super Bowl hints at more opportunities for competition, even if indirectly. However, as the feud evolves, it may no longer be the artists themselves who keep the conversation alive. Their fans, collaborators, and cultural moments will likely fuel the ongoing debate about who reigns supreme.
For now, all eyes are on December 12, as the rap world awaits the next chapter in this epic battle. Whether it’s Drake’s dominance or Kendrick’s defiance that takes center stage, one thing is clear: the Kendrick Lamar and Drake saga is far from over.
