Podcast Summary: New Rory & MAL - Episode 266 | Mr. Mal v.s. The Big Steppers
Introduction to the Battle
In Episode 266 of New Rory & MAL, hosted by iHeartPodcasts and The Volume, the conversation centers around the intense rap battle between Drake and Kendrick Lamar, specifically focusing on Kendrick's album Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers and Drake's subsequent diss tracks. The episode dives deep into the release strategies, lyrical content, and the broader implications of their musical exchanges.
Key Tracks Released
The discussion begins with Drake initiating the beef through his track "Family Matters," where he addresses personal allegations and criticizes Kendrick Lamar's authenticity. Drake states at [00:06]:
"I'm not no pedophile."
Kendrick Lamar responds by downplaying the impact of his own track, emphasizing the strength of "Family Matters" as a diss record. At [00:57], Kendrick remarks:
"Family Matters is probably the best song in this whole show."
Drake continues to assert the superiority of his diss moves, particularly highlighting his track "Euphoria." He declares at [03:00]:
"I could be wrong. But it's something funny there."
Strategies and Execution
Rory and Mall analyze the strategic releases by both artists. Kendrick's approach involves releasing multiple tracks in quick succession, each serving a different purpose—ranging from personal admissions to club anthems. At [05:03], Kendrick notes:
"So I definitely shifted as the week went, but when Euphoria first came out, I was like, all right, that's cool."
Drake counters by praising the technical aspects of Kendrick's music but remains firm in his belief that his diss tracks hold more weight in the battle. He asserts at [12:45]:
"Let's just talk about the bars, the music. Let's get to that. Who's putting out the better music?"
Controversial Claims and Speculations
A significant portion of the episode delves into the controversial allegations presented in Drake's diss tracks, such as claims about Kendrick's personal life, including accusations of domestic violence and paternity disputes. Drake emphatically states at [34:53]:
"I've got an 11 year old daughter."
Kendrick challenges the veracity of these claims, suggesting that they may be fabricated to undermine his credibility. At [09:35], Kendrick articulates:
"I think people have such an eye for Kendrick and how much they love him."
The hosts debate the authenticity of these allegations, with Rory expressing skepticism about Drake's claims. Rory comments at [38:14]:
"The perception is Drake to Rory's point. That's why I say Kendrick is the real loser here."
Fan and Social Media Reactions
The episode highlights the role of fan bases and social media in amplifying the battle between Drake and Kendrick. The hosts discuss how online narratives and meme pages contribute to shaping public perception, often blurring the lines between fact and fiction. Kendrick observes at [32:01]:
"Try to be objective in this room. I listen to more Drake than I do Kendrick Lamar. But objectively right now I think Kendrick Lamar is winning."
Drake counters by emphasizing the subjective nature of music consumption and personal biases. He remarks at [51:13]:
"That's what always happens."
Impact on Artists' Reputations
The conversation extends to the broader impact of the beef on both artists' reputations within the music industry. Kendrick suggests that Drake's over-explanations of his alleged misconduct only serve to damage Drake's image further. He states at [28:40]:
"He sounded so frustrated and flustered, and I don't really think he is."
Drake defends his position, arguing that his diss tracks are purely musical and not personal attacks. At [36:40], Drake asserts:
"I'm just Drake and Kendrick, doubt. Like, I don't."
Conclusions and Future Outlook
As the episode wraps up, the hosts reflect on the future trajectory of the beef between Drake and Kendrick. They speculate on the possibility of further exchanges and the lasting effects this battle might have on hip-hop culture. Kendrick concludes at [133:54]:
"It's happening right now, and I'm saying I'll be the first to say. I'm a hypocrite, a bunch of shit I stand on moral grounds about that I don't budge on."
Drake maintains a forward-looking perspective, emphasizing his focus on his music and personal life amidst the ongoing drama. He remarks at [137:14]:
"I'm just chilling."
Notable Quotes
- Drake [00:06]: "I'm not no pedophile."
- Kendrick Lamar [00:57]: "Family Matters is probably the best song in this whole show."
- Drake [03:00]: "I could be wrong. But it's something funny there."
- Kendrick Lamar [05:03]: "So I definitely shifted as the week went, but when Euphoria first came out, I was like, all right, that's cool."
- Drake [12:45]: "Let's just talk about the bars, the music. Let's get to that. Who's putting out the better music?"
- Drake [34:53]: "I've got an 11 year old daughter."
- Kendrick Lamar [09:35]: "I think people have such an eye for Kendrick and how much they love him."
- Rory [38:14]: "The perception is Drake to Rory's point. That's why I say Kendrick is the real loser here."
- Kendrick Lamar [32:01]: "Try to be objective in this room. I listen to more Drake than I do Kendrick Lamar. But objectively right now I think Kendrick Lamar is winning."
- Drake [51:13]: "That's what always happens."
- Kendrick Lamar [28:40]: "He sounded so frustrated and flustered, and I don't really think he is."
- Drake [36:40]: "I'm just Drake and Kendrick, doubt. Like, I don't."
- Kendrick Lamar [133:54]: "It's happening right now, and I'm saying I'll be the first to say. I'm a hypocrite, a bunch of shit I stand on moral grounds about that I don't budge on."
Final Thoughts
Episode 266 of New Rory & MAL offers an in-depth analysis of the Drake vs. Kendrick Lamar beef, exploring the complexities of their musical exchanges and the strategies employed by both artists. The hosts provide a balanced perspective, acknowledging the lyrical prowess of both rappers while scrutinizing the personal allegations and their impact on public perception. As the beef continues to evolve, listeners are left contemplating the future dynamics of hip-hop rivalries and the role of media in shaping these narratives.