A New Age of Scapegoating: The Drake and Kendrick Lamar Feud
The recent rap feud between Drake and Kendrick Lamar has drawn in audiences from all over. This clash between two music heavyweights, characterized by a series of diss tracks, has escalated to a level that goes beyond mere entertainment. It signifies a contemporary version of an ancient ritual - scapegoating.
Ancient Rituals in the Modern World
Originating centuries ago, scapegoating involves the collective blaming of an individual or group, serving to purify the moral conscience of the mass. In the current instance, the feud between Drake and Kendrick Lamar has become a stage for expressing grievances and resolving disputes within the rap community.
The Genesis of a Rap Feud
The controversy started with a question of supremacy in the rap industry, ignited by a verse from J. Cole on a Drake song. Kendrick Lamar retaliated, asserting his superiority as an artist. This initial disagreement rapidly grew into a deeper argument about hip-hop, masculinity, and even the nature of evil.
Accusations and Counteraccusations
As the disagreement intensified, accusations of misconduct flew between the two artists. Lamar criticized Drake's authenticity and his representation of Blackness, accusing him of cultural appropriation. In response, Drake alleged domestic violence and secret children against Lamar.
It's crucial to remember that these allegations are unverified and could be part of the theatrical nature of diss tracks. The strength of these accusations lies in their ability to influence public perception and construct a narrative. Lamar has fashioned himself as the defender of real rap culture, while Drake is portrayed as an outsider exploiting Black culture.
The Scapegoat: Drake
Drake's popularity and success make him an easy target for collective blame. He embodies the commercialization and mainstream appeal of hip-hop, which some view as a watering down of the genre's authenticity. By attacking Drake, Lamar connects with the resentment and frustration of rap purists who yearn for a return to the genre's origins.
Digital Age Feuds
The feud's uniqueness lies in the digital era in which it is happening. Drake and Lamar are using cutting-edge digital technologies to release diss tracks instantly and engage with a global audience. The audience is also part of the feud, participating through comments, remixes, and social media discussions.
Implications for the Music Industry
While it may appear to be a personal rivalry, the feud has wider implications for the music industry. It emphasizes the strategic use of gossip and metanarratives to attract mass attention in a time of fragmented media consumption. Artists like Drake and Lamar have become experts at creating narratives that resonate with audiences and generate buzz.
The Power of Storytelling
The lasting impact of this feud may not be the resolution of any deep-seated issues within the hip-hop community. Misogyny, abuse, and cultural appropriation will persist beyond this conflict. However, it serves as a testament to the power of storytelling and the role of artists in molding cultural narratives.
Ultimately, the feud between Drake and Kendrick Lamar is more than just a rivalry between two rappers. It symbolizes a contemporary scapegoating ritual, where an individual is collectively blamed to cleanse the moral conscience of the masses. This feud taps into deeper tensions within the hip-hop community and highlights the strategic use of gossip and metanarrative in the music industry. Even if the feud doesn't bring about significant change, it underscores the power of storytelling and the influence of artists on cultural narratives.
