Kendrick Lamar is celebrating Independence Day with the music video for his chart-topping Drake diss song.
The triumphal “Not Like Us” visual opens with Lamar rapping a bit of a new track that includes the line “Keep a horn on me, that Kamasi.” Later, there are cameos from California figures including Tommy the Clown, Compton native and former Toronto Raptors All-Star DeMar DeRozan, producer Mustard (pointedly wearing a Toronto Blue Jays cap), and Anthony “Top Dawg” Tiffith.
Lamar also takes further jabs at Drake and October’s Very Own by smashing an owl piñata and gazing at a caged owl. Plus, Lamar dances with his partner, Whitney Alford, and two children. (Drake had questioned Lamar’s family dynamics on diss tracks like “Family Matters.”)
Featured appearances by artists like YG, “Not Like Us” producer Mustard and other prominent figures from the Los Angeles rap scene, which highlighted the unity among various artists and communities in the city. The video shoot itself became a community event, with locals and fans joining in, creating an atmosphere of solidarity and celebration. The event also underscored Kendrick Lamar’s influence and ability to bring together diverse elements of L.A., including Bloods and Crips.