Kendrick Lamar delivered a show-stopping performance at Toronto’s Rogers Centre, electrifying fans with his chart-topping diss track “Not Like Us” aimed at rival Drake. The concert, Lamar’s first in Drake’s hometown since their public feud began, cemented his dominance in the hip-hop rivalry, as reported by Billboard.
As the first of two nights at Rogers Centre concluded, Lamar unleashed “Not Like Us,” a 2025 Grammy winner for Record of the Year. The crowd erupted, singing along to the infectious lyrics that targeted Drake. Phones lit up the arena, and fans chanted “One more time” for over two minutes, though Lamar chose not to encore the track, leaving the moment to linger. The performance underscored the ongoing feud, with many declaring Lamar the victor, per Rolling Stone.
Lamar’s setlist featured hits from his latest album GNX, including “Squabble Up” and “TV Off,” alongside fan favourites like “Humble,” “King Kunta,” “Euphoria,” “All the Stars,” and “Swimming Pools (Drank).” The high-energy show thrilled Toronto fans, proving Lamar’s ability to command Drake’s home turf. An anticipated pro-Drake OVO takeover outside the venue was dispersed by police after safety concerns, with fans sharing their experiences on social media.
Kendrick Lamar’s Career Peak
The Pulitzer Prize-winning rapper, known for albums like Good Kid, M.A.A.D City, To Pimp a Butterfly, and DAMN., is at a career high. With 17 Grammy wins from 57 nominations, Lamar’s lyrical storytelling and jazz-funk fusion have earned him global acclaim. “Not Like Us” solidified his cultural impact, topping charts and dominating the 2025 Grammys, making his Toronto performance a defining moment.
Kendrick just performed Poetic Justice in front of Drakes home town of Toronto and stopped right at Drakes verse and walked off stage 😬😬😬 pic.twitter.com/2PrnTu8CLT
— OB (@OnBeatMusic) June 13, 2025
The rivalry between Lamar and Drake intensified in 2024 with a series of diss tracks, culminating in Lamar’s “Not Like Us.” Performing it in Toronto, Drake’s stronghold, was a bold move that fans and critics lauded as a decisive blow. X posts buzzed with reactions, with users calling the concert a “humiliation” for Drake, though some OVO supporters vowed a comeback.
Lamar’s Toronto triumph highlights his artistry and strategic prowess in hip-hop. The performance thrilled fans and amplified the cultural significance of his feud with Drake.