The explosive rap beef between Kendrick Lamar and Drake continues to generate new angles, and DJ Akademiks is adding his voice to the narrative. During a recent livestream, Akademiks claimed that Kendrick Lamar directly dissed hip-hop journalist Elliott Wilson, calling him a “rat” to his face.
Akademiks’ Version of Events
Akademiks explained that Wilson had apparently fallen out with Drake over alleged interview requests being dodged. Wilson then reportedly went to the video shoot for Kendrick Lamar’s diss track “Not Like Us.” According to Akademiks, instead of finding an ally, Wilson was met with harsh words from Lamar himself. “Kendrick looked him square in the face, ‘You a rat,’” Akademiks stated on stream, as captured by DJ Akademiks TV on Instagram.
This account contrasts with Wilson’s own recollection of the event. Wilson previously tweeted about the interaction, framing it more playfully: “Kendrick dapped me up and whispered ‘you’re a rat.’ I [heart emoji] hip hop. Ha! #Compton.” Akademiks, however, suggests Lamar’s tone was far more critical than playful, though he also noted that Wilson wasn’t actually at the video shoot.
A Lingering Feud
These conflicting interpretations highlight the complex and evolving nature of the discourse surrounding the Drake and Kendrick Lamar conflict. The two titans have been engaged in a lyrical battle for over two years, with the fallout continuing to impact those around them. Drake’s recent album “ICEMAN” even featured shots aimed at Lamar and his supporters.
Elliott Wilson, like many in hip-hop media, has taken a side in the beef, firmly planting himself in Kendrick Lamar’s corner. Akademiks’ commentary suggests that even those who align with Lamar might not always receive the validation they expect, especially when navigating the fallout from such a high-profile conflict.
The Impact on Hip-Hop Media
Akademiks expressed continued respect for Wilson as a peer but didn’t shy away from his critical assessment of the situation. The alleged diss adds another dramatic chapter to the ongoing narrative, showing how deeply intertwined the personal and professional lives of artists and media figures can become during major rap battles. It remains to be seen how these differing accounts will further shape the public perception of the beef.
What do you think about DJ Akademiks’ claims regarding Kendrick Lamar and Elliott Wilson? Do you believe Wilson’s version or Akademiks’? Share your thoughts in the comments below!