Vybz Kartel Thinks Drake Is a ‘Better & Bigger Artist’ Than Kendrick Lamar: Lets Find Out Why
Vybz Kartel has entered the chat about one of hip-hop’s hottest debates:
Drake versus Kendrick Lamar – and let’s just say, the dancehall legend is unapologetically riding with Team Drizzy.
In a candid interview, Kartel didn’t mince words when asked to weigh in on the rap game’s most buzzed-about feud. “I’m not a fan of Kendrick,” Kartel admitted, cutting straight to the point. “I don’t even listen to Kendrick, so I wouldn’t know.”
He went on to explain, “What does he rap? I saw it on the internet, but no disrespect to the dude — I hear him, but I don’t listen to him. Drake is more in tune with Jamaica and the culture.”
And if there was any doubt about where Kartel stands, he made it plain: “Drake is a better and bigger artist.”
Kartel’s bold statements come fresh off his triumphant return to the stage. On New Year’s Eve, the reggae icon performed in front of over 35,000 fans at Kingston’s National Stadium during the Freedom Street concert. The event marked his first performance since his release from prison in July after serving a 13-year sentence for the controversial murder conviction of Clive “Lizard” Williams. Kartel and his co-accused have consistently maintained their innocence.
Now, let’s talk about this rap beef. Drake and Kendrick’s simmering feud turned up the heat last year, spilling over into a fiery back-and-forth that’s still got fans buzzing. It all kicked off when Drake took shots at K-Dot on tracks like “Push Ups” and “Taylor Made Freestyle” back in April. Kendrick didn’t hold back, firing off blistering responses with tracks like “Euphoria” and the chart-topping “Not Like Us.” Drake then upped the ante with tracks like “Family Matters” and “The Heart Pt. 6” in May.
While Kendrick is gearing up to headline the 2025 Super Bowl Halftime Show, Drake is embroiled in legal battles with Universal Music Group. Drizzy is accusing the label of inflating Kendrick’s streams and allowing defamatory lyrics against him on “Not Like Us.” UMG has denied the allegations, calling them “offensive and untrue,” and maintained that their marketing practices are “ethically sound.”
But let’s keep it real: This isn’t just about who has better bars or the slickest production. Vybz Kartel’s comments highlight a deeper conversation about cultural connection and representation. For many of us in the diaspora, it’s not just about the music; it’s about who feels authentic, who bridges worlds, and who uplifts the cultures we come from. And when it comes to Jamaica and dancehall, it’s clear that Drake has earned Kartel’s respect.
Now, I’m not here to say who’s right or wrong in this rap battle. Both Drake and Kendrick are powerhouses in their own right, each with unique styles and messages. But hearing Kartel side with Drizzy because of his connection to Jamaican culture? That’s a perspective that deserves attention.
So, where do you stand in this Drake vs. Kendrick debate? Let’s talk about it.
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