Entertainment
Music war: Beefs among musicians ploy to boost image, fans control
Beef in music isn’t just about trading lyrical blows—it’s a multi-layered saga that fuels creativity, drives record sales, and ignites fan wars. From the gritty conflicts of Tupac Shakur in the ‘90s to the jaw-dropping confrontations of 2025, this culture of beef has evolved into a force that shapes careers, divides fan bases, and even influences the bottom line.
The American Origin: Tupac’s Battle and Its Legacy
In the early ‘90s, Tupac Shakur’s open feud with The Notorious B.I.G. marked a turning point in hip hop. It wasn’t merely a personal vendetta; it was a bitter clash that symbolized the struggle between the East and West Coasts. Tupac’s raw, unapologetic lyrics challenged the status quo, making his diss tracks must-hear events that spurred record sales and intense loyalty among his fans. This wasn’t just rivalry—it was a declaration that authenticity comes at a price, and every diss amplified his music’s commercial and cultural impact.
The Modern Chapter: Kendrick Lamar vs. Drake in 2025
Fast forward to February 2025. In a moment that stunned the music world, Kendrick Lamar clinched multiple Grammys with a track that was a full-throttle diss aimed squarely at Drake. But Kendrick didn’t stop there. During his Superbowl halftime performance, he escalated the beef by publicly calling Drake a pedophile—a move that sent shockwaves far beyond the usual rap battles.
What Drove Kendrick to Make Such a Startling Claim?
For years, unverified whispers and controversial allegations had been circulating about Drake’s conduct, creating an undercurrent of distrust among some industry insiders. Kendrick, a figure known for never mincing words, may have seen this as an opportunity to confront what he perceived as a moral failing in an industry that often rewards commercial success over ethical standards. By invoking such a charged accusation on one of the biggest stages in the world, Kendrick wasn’t just engaging in typical rivalry—he was making a statement meant to force a conversation about accountability in the music business.
The Fallout and Reactions:
The reaction was swift and polarizing.
Kendrick’s Loyalists: For many, his outburst was a long-overdue wake-up call—a brave, uncompromising act that held even the most celebrated figures to account. They saw it as a return to the raw spirit of hip-hop, where truth is spoken regardless of the consequences.
Drake’s Supporters: On the other hand, Drake’s fan base erupted in outrage. Social media platforms exploded with condemnatory hashtags and heated debates, with fans arguing that such a severe allegation should never be made without concrete evidence. The atmosphere in the stadium was reported to be tense, with many audience members visibly upset by the intensity of the performance.
Industry Voices: Critics in the media debated whether Kendrick’s tactic was a legitimate artistic expression or a dangerous crossing of the line from hyperbole to defamation. The incident highlighted a growing concern: when beef transcends music and spills into personal character attacks, it risks undermining the very culture it seeks to invigorate.
Nigeria’s Own Beef Legacy: Rivalries that Shaped Our Sound
The competitive spirit in music is nothing new to Nigeria. Our own beef history is as storied as it is complex, and it has always been a double-edged sword—fostering innovation while also stirring division among fans.
Sikiru Ayinde Barrister vs. Kollington Ayinla:
In the late 20th century, our pioneers like Sikiru Ayinde Barrister and Killington Ayinla set the stage for what would become celebrated, if turbulent, rivalry. Their beef was marked by intense performances and sharp lyrical exchanges. Yet, despite the rivalry, their public interactions often hinted at a mutual respect—almost a brotherhood that transcended competition. The passing of Barrister in 2010 cemented his legacy, turning the rivalry into a cherished memory for those who witnessed it.
Early 2000s – The Rap Battles that Defined a Generation:
In the early 21st century, the battle lines were redrawn. Rappers like Mode9 and Ruggedman went head-to-head in lyrical duels that were meticulously dissected by fans. Every diss was a statement of artistic credibility. The confrontations between M.I Abaga and Kely Handsome, and later between M.I Abaga and Vector, were not mere exchanges of insults—they were high-stakes battles for respect and dominance in the Nigerian rap scene. Fans took sides with the intensity of ancient tribal loyalties, fueling online debates that could sometimes turn vicious.
Contemporary Rivalries – Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy:
In the mainstream, the beef between Wizkid and Davido has become almost a cultural phenomenon. In popular hangouts like Shitta, it’s well-known that praising Davido in the presence of Wizkid fans can lead to sharp disapproval and heated exchanges. Meanwhile, sporadic tensions between Burna Boy and Davido add another layer to the drama. These rivalries are not confined to studios—they spill over into daily conversations, online platforms, and even business dealings related to endorsements and collaborations.
The Business of Beef: A Catalyst for Commercial Success
While beef in music might seem like a simple matter of personal conflict, it plays a significant role in driving business dynamics. Controversial tracks and high-profile performances create a buzz that translates into record sales and massive streaming numbers on digital platforms. Every diss track and public feud not only attracts media attention but also deepens the engagement of fans—often resulting in increased revenues from streaming services and concert ticket sales.
Yet, this surge in popularity comes at a cost. The intensity of these rivalries often polarizes fan communities, leading to online battles that can escalate into real-life conflicts. The divide among fans, fueled by provocative statements like Kendrick’s shocking claim at the Superbowl, underscores a troubling reality: beef in music, while lucrative, can also erode the communal spirit that music is meant to foster.
