Kendrick Lamar’s 'Not Like Us': Unpacking All the Drake References & Easter Eggs

Kendrick Lamar Drops 'Not Like Us' Video with Subtle Yet Bold Drake Disses

The music world was set ablaze with the release of Kendrick Lamar’s latest video for his track ‘Not Like Us’. Barely a day after its launch, the music video has already amassed millions of views, capturing the attention of fans and critics alike. Packed with numerous references to his ongoing feud with Drake, the video serves not just as a visual accompaniment to the track, but also as a statement of dominance and creativity.

A Closer Look at the OVO References

One of the most striking aspects of the music video is the plethora of references to Drake. The opening scenes show Kendrick Lamar doing press-ups, an apparent nod to Drake’s own diss track titled 'Push Ups'. As the video unfolds, subtle shots and overt references become more frequent. Kendrick appears, arms outspread, with owls perched upon them— a clear allusion to Drake’s OVO (October’s Very Own) label, which features an owl as its logo. In a particularly dramatic moment, Kendrick smashes an owl piñata, scattering feathers and fragments, symbolizing his perceived victory over Drake.

Kendrick and His Family: A Personal Touch

The video takes a personal turn with shots of Kendrick's girlfriend, Whitney Alford, and their two children. This inclusion appears to counteract the allegations made in Drake’s track 'Family Matters', where he questions Kendrick's family values. Scenes of Kendrick’s family dancing and enjoying themselves add a layer of intimacy and wholesomeness to the video, portraying Kendrick as a devoted family man. Moreover, the wellbeing of his family in these visuals acts as a direct rebuttal to Drake's criticisms, showcasing Kendrick's protective and nurturing nature.

Symbolism and Hidden Messages

The video is rich with symbolism aimed squarely at Drake. A disclaimer at the onset reads, 'No OVHoes were harmed during the making of this video,' a cheeky jab at Drake's loyal fans. The appearance of caged owls throughout the video further enforces the image of Kendrick as the victor in their feud, depicting him as the master and Drake’s OVO as subdued and contained. These symbolic elements layer the video with depth, making it a compelling watch for those who enjoy dissecting visual metaphor.

Strategic Release Date

Notably, Kendrick chose to release the video on July 4th, American Independence Day. This choice could be interpreted as a bold statement on his independence and dominance in the rap game. Celebrated for its themes of freedom and rebellion, Independence Day lends an extra layer of significance to the video's release. Kendrick's assertion of his artistic and personal freedom is evident, making a strong statement not only to Drake but also to his fans and the music industry at large.

Public and Critical Response

The reaction to 'Not Like Us' has been overwhelmingly positive, with fans and critics praising Kendrick's creativity and lyrical prowess. The seamless blending of personal attacks with broader cultural statements showcases Kendrick’s skills as both a rapper and a storyteller. Social media platforms are buzzing with discussions and analyses of the video, and memes and gifs of the most iconic moments have begun to circulate widely, further cementing the video's impact.

Concluding Thoughts

The release of 'Not Like Us' marks another chapter in the ongoing saga between Kendrick Lamar and Drake. Through a combination of visual artistry, personal narrative, and biting references, Kendrick has crafted a piece that resonates on multiple levels. Whether it's through the symbol-laden imagery or the personal touches, the 'Not Like Us' video is both a narrative and artistic triumph. As fans continue to parse through the myriad of references, one thing is clear - Kendrick Lamar has made a statement that won't be easily forgotten.