Drake speaks on Disses in Hip Hop

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Among other things, the year of 2011 has been beneficial for hip hop. The West Coast re-emerged, along with the re-emergence of battle rap. Early this year, Jay-Z released “H.A.M.” with Kanye West, as a promotional single for Watch the Throne. Jay-Z’s verse on the song contained a slight jab towards Cash Money Records, who had been baiting Jay-Z for a little over a year.

Birdman and Lil Wayne discussed the “baby money” diss on “H.A.M.” for weeks. For the most part, they did not seem to be offended by it. However, during the promotional run for Tha Carter IV, there was a surprise from Lil Wayne. On his “It’s Good” track, which featured Jadakiss and Drake, a diss aimed at Jay-Z was contained.

Immediately following the release of the song, Drake separated himself from the situation and said he still was interested in recording with Jay-Z. In the time since then, Jay-Z and Lil Wayne both addressed the situation, playing it off. Drake has discussed the disses a few times, but went in-depth during his interview with Complex.

When asked about the Lil Wayne/Jay-Z feud and his own remarks on DJ Khaled’s “I’m On One,” Drake said rapping is all about the competition. On “Otis,” Drake said people told him the song was aimed at him. Regardless of the situation, Drake said “Otis” was one of the best songs of 2011. Drake is actually inspired by rappers going back and forth because it forces them to bring their best to the table. Making your peers go harder is what Drake says rapping is all about.