Black People, We Need to Gatekeep Our Culture

Too Many People Outside of the Diaspora Aren’t Minding Their Business

Black Culture Images — Adobe Stock

Like ripples in a pond, multiple connections can be made about the Drake vs. Kendrick rap battle. First and foremost, as Charlamagne the God put it, “we are witnessing the greatest rap battle in recent history.” I would agree. There have been some memorable rap battles since the birth of Hip Hop, and the fight between Drake and Kendrick will be in the Top 5 all-time battles.

But this battle has become a beef. Beef is when the rappers get personal in their battle lyrics. The raps take on a nastier tone. Both Drake and Kendrick have been trading accusations back and forth through their lyrics — from secret children, pedophilia, and spousal abuse. In addition, there has been an ongoing attack by multiple rappers that Drake isn’t Black — or Black enough.

Meanwhile, countless Black authors, culture critics, and historians have been analyzing the lyrics of both rappers and providing their views on social media. From an analysis of colorism in the Black community to racism in America, corporate greed and family dynamics are just some of the topics discussed by Black commentators. While the rap battle has provided enriching discussion in the Hip Hop community specifically…