Fat Joe Compares Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” to His Hit “Lean Back” [VIDEO]

Fat Joe Compares Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” to His Hit “Lean Back”

Hip-hop is known for its fierce creativity, legendary rivalries, and iconic collaborations. But every now and then, the genre produces moments of pure reflection and comparison, especially when two powerhouse artists discuss each other’s work. Recently, Fat Joe, a veteran in the rap game, drew a fascinating comparison between Kendrick Lamar’s track “Not Like Us” and his own iconic 2004 hit, “Lean Back.” The comparison has sparked conversations about the state of hip-hop, the evolution of rap, and how both artists have shaped the genre.

The Fat Joe-Kendrick Lamar Comparison: What Did He Say?

Fat Joe, who has been a prominent figure in the rap industry for decades, made headlines when he compared Kendrick Lamar’s song “Not Like Us” to his own classic, “Lean Back.” The comment came during a recent interview on Big Boy TV, where Fat Joe was discussing the power of influential tracks in hip-hop.

What is Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us”?

“Not Like Us” is one of the standout tracks from Kendrick Lamar’s latest album, Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers. Known for his ability to blend lyrical complexity with social and political commentary, Lamar’s “Not Like Us” is no different. The track dives into Kendrick’s reflections on the state of the world and his own position as one of the most influential voices in modern rap.

The song, filled with potent imagery and sharp lyricism, explores themes like authenticity, individuality, and the pressures that come with fame. Kendrick’s distinct voice and unconventional delivery have earned him the respect of both critics and fans. In the track, Kendrick uses his platform to challenge those who compromise their authenticity in the pursuit of success, calling out what he sees as a trend of conformity in hip-hop and beyond.

Why Did Fat Joe Compare “Not Like Us” to “Lean Back”?

Fat Joe’s comparison of “Not Like Us” to “Lean Back” highlights the thematic and cultural impact of both songs. While “Lean Back” is widely known as an anthem of confidence, swagger, and street credibility, “Not Like Us” takes a deeper, more reflective approach. Despite these differences in style, Fat Joe saw similarities in how both tracks created a cultural moment within the rap community.

“Lean Back” was released in 2004 as part of Fat Joe’s album, Terror Squad: True Story. The track, featuring Remy Ma, became an instant classic, widely regarded as one of the most iconic club bangers of the early 2000s. Its catchy hook and effortless flow resonated with listeners, transcending regional boundaries. Fat Joe’s comparison stems from the impact that both songs had on their respective eras.

In his comment, Fat Joe suggested that both tracks had a similar cultural weight: “Just like how ‘Lean Back’ defined a moment in hip-hop, I feel Kendrick’s ‘Not Like Us’ is defining something similar for his generation.” For Fat Joe, “Lean Back” marked a time when hip-hop was transitioning into an era of mainstream dominance, characterized by big hits and catchy anthems. Meanwhile, “Not Like Us” is seen as Kendrick’s personal declaration, a statement that challenges the norm and elevates his place in the rap game.

The Significance of “Lean Back” in Hip-Hop History

When Fat Joe dropped “Lean Back” with Remy Ma, it was nothing short of a phenomenon. The song dominated the charts and became a rallying cry for hip-hop lovers everywhere. It’s often hailed as a quintessential New York anthem, even though it appealed to rap fans nationwide.

At the time, East Coast rap was experiencing a resurgence, and “Lean Back” came at a time when hip-hop was evolving. The track’s signature beat, produced by Terror Squad’s Scott Storch, had the power to get anyone moving, with its infectious rhythm and catchy hook. “Lean Back” wasn’t just a club banger—it was a celebratory anthem that captured the essence of hip-hop at the time.

The song was also notable for its minimalist, smooth flow, making it both accessible and universally loved. This was an era where rap was becoming more about catchy hooks and cross-genre appeal. Fat Joe was able to capture the mood of the streets and translate it into a commercial hit that became synonymous with hip-hop culture.

How “Lean Back” Influenced the Rap Game

The success of “Lean Back” helped solidify Fat Joe’s position as one of the leaders in hip-hop, not only in the East Coast but across the country. It also helped elevate the career of Remy Ma, who became a force to be reckoned with in rap after her appearance on the track. “Lean Back” is often considered one of those rare songs that transcended regional boundaries, connecting audiences from coast to coast. It became a party anthem that made waves in clubs, radios, and even in sports arenas. In fact, it continues to be a staple of throwback playlists.

Fat Joe’s success with this song wasn’t just about commercial popularity—it was about tapping into a feeling that many could relate to. The track gave listeners permission to feel invincible, to “lean back” and be confident, even in difficult circumstances. The song’s long-lasting popularity speaks to its cultural significance and its influence on the trajectory of hip-hop in the mid-2000s.

Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” and Its Cultural Impact

Kendrick Lamar is no stranger to making cultural statements with his music, and “Not Like Us” is another example of that. Unlike the light-hearted bravado of “Lean Back,” Kendrick’s “Not Like Us” explores themes of individualism, self-awareness, and cultural critique. Where “Lean Back” brought listeners into a moment of celebration and unity, “Not Like Us” challenges people to examine their identity within the larger cultural and societal framework.

Kendrick’s ability to confront the contradictions in his environment, as well as his struggles with fame and expectations, adds depth to his music. In “Not Like Us,” Kendrick does more than just claim superiority; he reflects on the larger context of the hip-hop industry, fame, and personal integrity. His lyrics on this track are poetic, layered, and often metaphorical, continuing the tradition of lyrical depth that has defined his career.

For Kendrick Lamar, “Not Like Us” is a reaffirmation of his individuality. It’s about making sure he stays true to himself while challenging others in the industry to do the same. His tone is serious and reflective, much different from the celebratory atmosphere that Fat Joe crafted with “Lean Back.” However, both songs share an overarching message of self-confidence—just in different ways.

Fat Joe’s Legacy and Kendrick Lamar’s Influence on Modern Hip-Hop

Both Fat Joe and Kendrick Lamar have been instrumental in shaping the trajectory of modern rap. Fat Joe’s Terror Squad imprint and his contribution to East Coast rap paved the way for many artists who came after him. Meanwhile, Kendrick Lamar’s lyrical storytelling and socio-political commentary have made him one of the most respected and impactful rappers of the last decade.

The comparison between “Lean Back” and “Not Like Us” highlights how hip-hop continues to evolve while still maintaining its core themes of confidence, individualism, and expression. While Fat Joe’s “Lean Back” remains a party anthem that reflects an era of rap known for catchy hooks and bold proclamations, Kendrick’s “Not Like Us” represents a more introspective, layered version of self-assurance in the rap game.

For fans, both songs are important cultural moments—each marking a different time in the genre’s history. Fat Joe’s ability to make people feel invincible through his music and Kendrick’s more cerebral, thought-provoking style shows just how diverse and multi-dimensional hip-hop has become.

 What the Fat Joe to the Kendrick Lamar Comparison Means for Hip-Hop

The comparison between Fat Joe’s “Lean Back” and Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” reveals more than just an appreciation for each other’s work—it shows how hip-hop has evolved to express different forms of self-confidence, individuality, and identity. While “Lean Back” was a club anthem that resonated with audiences through its simplicity and celebratory energy, “Not Like Us” has challenged listeners to think deeper about their place in the world, using a more reflective approach to the themes of self-assurance.

Both tracks have become important cultural markers in hip-hop, representing different

aspects of the genre’s growth and diversity. As the rap game continues to evolve, it’s clear that artists like Fat Joe and Kendrick Lamar are shaping the future of hip-hop, each bringing their unique perspective and sound to the genre.