Kendrick Lamar Grammys: Kendrick Lamar Takes Another Subtle Dig at Drake with Canadian Tuxedo at the Grammys- The 2025 Grammy Awards weren’t just about celebrating music—they also marked another subtle chapter in the ongoing feud between Kendrick Lamar and Drake. What could have been an ordinary night of wins became a moment dripping with underlying tension, courtesy of Lamar’s subtle but clear dig at his Canadian counterpart.
While Lamar was raking in accolades, including the coveted Best Song and Record of the Year Grammys for his critically acclaimed diss track, “Not Like Us,” his fashion choice also spoke volumes. Wearing a denim-on-denim ensemble, often called the Canadian tuxedo, Lamar seemed to send a pointed message to Drake, whose roots are firmly planted in Canada. This wasn’t just about fashion; it was a calculated move to fuel the fire that has been smoldering between the two for over a decade.
And, while some may argue that “Not Like Us” is simply a track, it’s clear that the song’s success—both in the charts and at the Grammys—is about more than music. For Kendrick, it’s a symbol of creative rivalry. For Drake, it’s a reminder of the complex web of competition, betrayal, and artistry that shapes the industry.
How Many Grammys Did Kendrick Lamar Win?
In total, Kendrick Lamar took home five Grammys that night, leaving fans and industry insiders alike in awe of his continued dominance. The “Not Like Us” track also scored wins for Best Rap Performance, Best Music Video, and Best Rap Song, further cementing Lamar’s status as a force to be reckoned with in the world of music.
Was Drake at the Grammys Last Night?
Interestingly, Drake was a no-show at the 2025 Grammys. This wasn’t exactly surprising. Over the last few years, he has publicly criticized the Recording Academy for what he believes is a “disconnect” with the artists it’s meant to represent. The Canadian rapper also withdrew his 2022 album Certified Lover Boy from Grammy consideration, making it clear that he’s not all-in when it comes to the award show.
This move isn’t just about skipping a ceremony—Drake has been vocal about the need for change within the industry. His absence, therefore, only deepened the divide between him and the Academy, leaving more space for Lamar to continue pushing boundaries, both musically and in terms of their personal feud.
The Diss Track That Took the World by Storm
“Not Like Us” didn’t just make waves—it created a tsunami of controversy. The track, filled with double entendres, sharply accuses Drake and his circle of being predators. The controversial lyric “Certified Lover Boy? Certified pedophile?” is just one example of Lamar’s biting wordplay, aimed directly at his rival. The cover art, featuring an image of Drake’s house marked with red flags (used to highlight registered sex offenders), added yet another layer to the growing tension.
In the accompanying music video, Lamar drops a stunning visual metaphor: he smashes an Owl Pinata, referencing the OVO Sound label’s owl mascot—a nod to Drake’s brand. It was clear, once again, that Lamar wasn’t holding back.
Is It Just Music, or Is It Personal?
The ongoing feud between Kendrick Lamar and Drake is far from a simple rivalry over musical success. It’s personal, and it’s been building for years. The two rappers have traded diss tracks, with Lamar’s “Not Like Us” being one of the most cutting. But it’s not just the lyrics that matter—it’s the wider cultural context.
Before this, Kendrick dropped his savage diss track “Euphoria”, which was received with equal parts applause and backlash. He’s been on a mission to shake up the music industry, calling out hypocrisy and confronting those he believes have wronged him. For example, his track “6:16 in LA” cleverly used the timestamp format popularized by Drake, all while embedding multiple cultural and personal references to fuel fans’ theories.
The Role of Productivity Tools in Shaping Feuds
While music is undoubtedly about art, these public battles also speak to how highly driven individuals can harness competition and rivalries to fuel productivity. Kendrick Lamar’s continued dominance in the industry is a direct result of his ability to turn personal conflict into creative productivity. In the same way, productivity tools like time management apps or collaboration platforms can help professionals channel competition and creative energy into their work.
Whether it’s Lamar’s choice to perform relentlessly or work with SZA, these tools and decisions amplify his output and influence. A well-rounded project management tool, for instance, could be the difference between a rushed diss track and a Grammy-winning one!
What’s Next for Lamar and Drake?
Although Lamar’s Grammy triumph is significant, it’s clear that the feud isn’t over. As we look ahead, 2025’s Super Bowl halftime show could see Lamar perform Not Like Us to an audience of millions, perhaps with Drake’s name still on his lips.
For now, though, Kendrick’s triumph is a reminder of just how powerfully competition, creativity, and productivity intertwine in the world of music—and beyond.
Conclusion: The Unfolding Legacy of Lamar and Drake’s Feud
The 2025 Grammy Awards weren’t just a celebration of musical achievement. They were a reminder of how deeply personal conflicts can shape cultural moments. Kendrick Lamar’s win isn’t just about the Grammys—it’s about continuing to prove that creativity is a product of personal drive, and productivity tools (whether creative or organizational) play a significant role in managing and nurturing that energy.
So, next time you’re feeling blocked or held back, think about how Lamar uses his battles to fuel his art. The right tools, whether for managing deadlines, tracking progress, or even staying ahead of competitors, can help turn any rivalry into an opportunity for greater productivity.