We don’t want to hear you say Nigga no more: Misclassifying colorism in the Kendrick and Drake beef

Starting as a competitive rap beef, this feud between two mainstream rappers has turned into a conversation on integrity, Black art and Black music being misused by interlopers within genres. by Kahfre Jay Can you say “low cultural IQ?” In recent Hip Hop exchanges, Kendrick Lamar’s lyrical challenge to Drake regarding his use of the word “nigga” has stirred significant controversy. Kendrick’s critique, however, has been misclassified by many outside the culture as colorism. Instead, it serves as a pointed call to protect Black cultural expressions from superficial appropriation and I will explain why. The current rivalry between Kendrick Lamar and Drake symbolizes deeper cultural conversations within the genre. Reignited by Kendrick’s recent track “Euphoria,” the conflict reflects not just a battle over lyrical prowess but also a broader dispute over integrity and representation in the music industry. Kendrick’s pointed lyrics are part of a broader call for authenticity, challenging superficial engagement with Black culture and rightfully so. However, Kendrick now faces accusations of colorism. Critics suggest Kendrick’s critique implies Drake, as a biracial artist and half-white artist, cannot claim this culturally significant term and, therefore, has no right to say it. However, Kendrick’s comments focus on Drake’s perceived inauthenticity...