Kendrick Lamar’s Not Like Us is widely interpreted as a diss track aimed at Drake, heavily laden with subliminal messages and layered symbolism. The song, released amid their ongoing feud, serves as a direct response to Drake’s accusations and previous diss tracks, solidifying Lamar’s stance in the battle.

Hidden Meanings and Symbolism:

1. “Not Like Us” as a Theme:
   The title itself suggests that Drake is an outsider—someone who doesn’t belong or isn’t part of Kendrick’s authentic culture or community. This aligns with the idea that Lamar sees himself as real and grounded, while Drake is artificial and disconnected.
2. Allegations and Exposures:
   Kendrick subtly implies that Drake surrounds himself with questionable individuals and possibly engages in inappropriate behaviors. Some listeners speculate that Lamar hints at rumors regarding Drake’s relationships with younger individuals, an accusation that has floated around in hip-hop circles.
3. West Coast vs. Toronto:
   The production, featuring a West Coast-style beat, serves as a nod to Kendrick’s Compton roots and solidifies his dominance in the rap game. By doing so, he asserts that Drake (who is from Toronto) can’t compete in Kendrick’s home turf or style.
4. Mocking Drake’s Persona:
   Kendrick repeatedly diminishes Drake’s credibility, questioning his authenticity, loyalty, and true position in hip-hop. The song carries an overarching theme of exposing someone who presents a false image to the public.
5. Wordplay and Double Meanings:
   Lamar is known for his intricate lyricism, and Not Like Us is no different. The track is full of coded language, alluding to past events, industry politics, and Drake’s personal controversies.
6. Revenge for “Family Matters” & “Push Ups”
   Drake had previously taken shots at Kendrick on Family Matters and Push Ups, but Kendrick’s Not Like Us acts as a brutal counterattack, dismantling Drake’s reputation and credibility in a way that many fans believe is hard to recover from.

Cultural and Personal Significance:

The song also plays into the larger narrative of authenticity in hip-hop. Kendrick positions himself as a torchbearer for real rap, suggesting that Drake, with his pop appeal and alleged use of ghostwriters, doesn’t belong in the same category.

Ultimately, Not Like Us serves as a masterclass in rap beef, proving Kendrick’s ability to lyrically dismantle his opponent while keeping it catchy and impactful.