Indie Artist Music Hustle

When artists borrow, steal, or honor: What Drake and DaBaby reveal about hip-hop's soul

• Host and Creator: Blonde Intelligence (Ms. Roni) • Season 4 • Episode 42

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Welcome to this week’s Indie Artist Music Hustle with Blonde Intelligence. I am your host Ms. Roni and I always seek to give you exquisite cranial repertoire. What happens when artistic influence crosses into imitation? This week's episode dives deep into the controversy surrounding Drake's "Nokia" release and the allegations that he borrowed concepts from another Canadian artist without proper credit. The timing couldn't be more ironic as Drake battles Universal Music Group over his own artistic rights while potentially undermining those of others.

We explore the fascinating contrast between Drake's approach and DaBaby's recent freestyle, where the latter paid respectful homage to Kendrick Lamar while maintaining his unique voice. DaBaby's performance showcases how artists can honor their influences without sacrificing authenticity – incorporating complex rhyme schemes and storytelling techniques reminiscent of Kendrick while infusing his own experiences and perspective.

The episode examines the unwritten codes of hip-hop culture: when is sampling and referencing acceptable, and when does it cross ethical boundaries? As Kendrick himself stated, "You're not a rap artist, you're a scam artist" – a cutting critique that forces us to question the difference between inspiration and appropriation. We dissect Drake's seemingly contradictory actions, from his emotional vulnerability in lyrics to what critics perceive as calculated controversy, and consider what these actions reveal about artistic identity in today's music landscape. Whether you're a dedicated hip-hop head or simply interested in the ethics of creative expression, this episode offers rich insights into how authenticity shapes our perception of artists and their work. Listen now and join the conversation about what true artistic integrity looks like in modern hip-hop. Remember to follow me @BlondeIntelligence or @rroneice

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Speaker 2:

Music. Welcome to this week's Indie Artist, music Hustle, with Blonde Intelligence. I'm your host, ms Brunny, and I always seek to give you a twisted cranium repertoire. This week I was watching one of my favorite YouTubers, which is Noctil. He's a white guy that does really good breakdowns of hip-hop music and I mean he got a large following. So many of you probably know who he is, but he was doing a review on DaBaby and I think he done like some type of freestyle there was three different beats but DaBaby killed it and I was like no, when I first heard of him it was like I remember the music, but mostly known for what happened with him and Danny Lay. So to me this was refreshing that he's in hip-hop news because of his talent. So I want to talk about that and how he paid homage to Kendrick in the song and how another Canadian artist was saying that Drake took parts of this Nokia song from him and it wasn't the first time, but hey, we'll talk about it a little bit.

Speaker 2:

In the dynamic world of hip hop, drake's recent release Nokia represents not only a musical endeavor but also a complex interplay of artistic integrity and legal challenges. The controversy surrounding allegations of copying work created by another Canadian artist highlights the delicate balance between inspiration and appropriation in music. Or, as Kendrick stated in Euphoria you're not a rap artist, you're a scam artist. You're not a rap artist, you're a scam artist. This situation is particularly ironic considering Drake's ongoing legal battle with UMG, which questions the very principles he seems to undermine in his latest work. Drake's imitation of Kendrick Lamar's dance moves in the Squabble Up video, as well as during the Super Bowl halftime show, serves as a symbol of this contradiction. By drawing from Lamar's artistic expression, dre risked diluting the originality that defined the true artist, and some of the people who was doing reviews and breakdowns were saying, if this was the way that he wanted it to hit, then this didn't do it. And I know that there was like some type of beef between Drake and Kai Sanat because he didn't like what Drake done for this video, for the visuals, and he was like I should have directed it. It needed this, it needed that. But sometimes people need to be able to take constructive criticism instead of always trying to, I guess, be a troll, because I don't know if drake can even, or if he even realizes what he is doing. Drake risks diluting the originality that defines a true artist, is this telling drake that he is not a true artist. If he is known and continues to bite off others in the industry, what does that make him? Because it does not sound like a true art.

Speaker 2:

This mimicry, juxtaposed with his legal issues, raises critical questions about the authenticity of his artistry. Are these actions a reflection of a deeper insecurity regarding his creative output or do they signify a calculated strategy to remain relevant in a rapidly changing industry? Kendrick did say the famous actor we once knew is now spiraling and moving just like a degenerate. So it's like the move that you're making. Do you think that you're calculated? I mean, how are you expecting for people to take this? It's like you lost the battle, the rap battle. Okay, it's like time to move on, but what's making this to me so historic, besides the legal battle, is the fact that he's not having any awareness. Are you not reading the comments, are you not? I mean, I know that there's a real world, and then there's the entertainment world, but there's a real world and then there's the entertainment world, but in real world. What do you really think is going on? Do you actually think that you are winning? No-transcript, no.

Speaker 2:

Moreover, the implications of borrowing from fellow musicians provoke a broader discussion about the hip-hop genre itself. The genre has historically thrived on sampling and collaboration, yet the boundaries of acceptable influence are continually tested, tested. So it's like it's cool to use a sample and pay for that sample or remake or whatever, but you is not cool to. Oh, I saw what he does, I like this, I'm gonna use this for myself and nobody's gonna say anything because they're a smaller artist to me. Going in with those intentions is you're asking for the karma that is coming back to your ass.

Speaker 2:

Critics argue that when artists like Drake cross these lines, they not only jeopardize their reputation but also challenge the very foundations of the hip hop culture, also challenged the very foundations of the hip-hop culture. The irony of Drake's situation is further compounded by his public persona. Known for his emotional vulnerability and introspective lyrics, his actions in Nokia seem to be the blueprint to what he has built his brand on. The duality prompts listeners to question whether his latest endeavors are genuinely artistic expressions or mere attempts to capitalize on controversy. And that's what I was saying. How do you think people are looking at this? Because if he's just trying to capitalize on controversy, then he needs a new PR team, then he needs a new PR team. That's just in my opinion.

Speaker 2:

Drake's actions can indeed be interpreted as a complex interplay between his desire to connect with Kendrick Lamar's artistic influence and his own struggles with identity as an artist. In recent collaborations and limited references, drake demonstrated an acknowledgement of kendrick's profound impact on hip-hop. For instance, drake talks takes subtle jabs at his contemporaries while simultaneously showcasing his lyrical prowess. This duality reflects an internal conflict. He seeks to assert his identity while grappling with the weight of Kendrick's innovative style and deep lyricism. Furthermore, the moniker of the biggest carrot in hip-hop highlights the criticism surrounding Drake's perceived inconsistency and not being authentic. Critics often point out to his switch between genres and styles as evidence of a lack of commitment to originality. For example, when he moves from rap to pop and tracks like One Dance, it raises questions about his true artistic voice. This inconsistency may stem from the pressure to compete in a genre heavily influenced by Kendrick's authenticity and innovation. Drake's struggle to remain his unique voice is indicative of a broader issue within the hip-hop community, and the issue is balancing personal expression with industry expectations.

Speaker 2:

Kendrick represents a form of artistry that emphasizes raw, unfiltered storytelling, contrasting with Drake's more commercial approach, as fans and critics dissect Drake's musical choices, they often highlight moments in his discography that suggests a yearning to connect with the deeper emotional narratives that kindred embodies. I don't know if this is true or if I agree with it, but I do think that in many forms, drake is showing that he really you know, remember that, uh, some like Mike I like to be like Mike everybody was talking about one of the videos like Michael Jordan. I think, in some off-putting way, drake is really admiring Kendrick, but for some reason he cannot let go of, I would say, the traumatic experience, because it was traumatic for him. I believe Everybody said it. You know some people laugh, but I think that it's more to the actions, because earlier, I know, I said that he needed to get a new PR team, but on the flip side of it, he might need to listen to his PR team and constructive criticism. So, um, I can tell that this is emotional. I can tell that he's not really ready to talk about it. He's mad and he want to fight about it, but it's like the fight is over. So, um, I feel like the people around him need to try to get him the support that he needs. He don't need to keep pressing towards. I don't even know if it's fulfilling contractual obligations at this point, but we're going to move to the baby.

Speaker 2:

So, on the other hand, the baby's recent freestyle with father love serves as a powerful testament to his admiration for kendrick lamar's artistic legacy, while simultaneously forging his own unique identity in the hip-hop landscape. Because, although he was giving homage to kendrick, he was still saying that he was the best and nobody is better than him. Although he ran with them, he's still the best, and that's how hip-hop is. And I think that was the reference that Kendrick made when he was like I pray that y'all are my friends, if not, then I'm. I'm YMW Nelly. Because he was like no, we can do this good, and you know we'll still be all right, or I can really just destroy you, and I don't think again that Drake read the room, but anyway, in the episode 200. And I cannot remember the name of the podcast. I'm so sorry, but I remember it was episode 200 because the baby made me remember.

Speaker 2:

In episode 200, his lyrical dexterity is on full display as he seamlessly weaves intricate wordplay and personal narratives into his verses. This creative delivery not only captivated his audience, but also reflected the essence of what hip-hop fans crave Authentic artistry that challenges the status quo. One of the most striking aspects of the baby's freestyle is his ability to pay homage to Kendrick Lamar without merely imitating him. For instance, he incorporates Kendrick's complex rhyme schemes and storytelling techniques, while infusing his own experiences and perspectives, because he liked to talk a lot about the women. Stop it, boy. Stop it about the women.

Speaker 2:

This blend of influences exemplifies how artists can honor their predecessors while still carving out their own path. By doing so, dababy highlights the positive impact Kendrick has had on his peers, encouraging them to innovate rather than to replicate. Furthermore, dababy's engagement with the musical elements of Squabble Up showcases his versatility and understanding of the genre. He skillfully manipulates the beat, demonstrating a keen sense of timing and rhythm that complements his lyrical content. This synergy between heat and lyricism is crucial in hip-hop, as it enhances the overall listening experience and underscores the artist's message. Dababy's ability to create this balance reinforces his status as a formidable artist in the industry. Additionally, his confident delivery and dynamic performance style serves to energize the audience, creating an atmosphere of excitement and engagement. This is particularly important in live performances, where the artist's ability to connect with the fans can significantly impact their reception. Dababy's charisma and stage presence further exemplify his growth as an artist, showcasing his commitment to pushing boundaries within the genre. Kendrick Lamar has indeed raised the bar for hip-hop delivery, and DaBaby's response serves as a reminder of the genre's potential for creativity and innovation. The contrast between Drake's legal dispute and DaBaby's artistic homage illustrate a broader narrative within hip-hop, where the best artists elevate the genre through thoughtful expression and skillful execution. The contrasting actions of Drake and the Baby reveal the complexities of artistic expression within the hip-hop community. While Drake's actions may appear contradictory, they prompt important discussions about the nature of inspiration and imitation in music. Meanwhile, dababy's homage to Kendrick Lamar serves as a beacon of hope for the future of hip-hop, encouraging artists to strive for authenticity and originality in their work.

Speaker 2:

That's all that I have for this week. Remember. You can catch any artist's music hustle with Blind Intelligence on all podcasts and platforms. You can catch any artist music hustle with Blonde Intelligence on all podcasts and platforms. You can catch us on social media. I do have a page floating out there on Facebook because Facebook deleted my page.

Speaker 2:

They said I was not who I said I was. I do not understand it, but anyway, I had my Blonde Intelligence page, which was the original name of this podcast, the Blonde Intelligence page, which was the original name of this podcast, the Blonde Intelligence Facebook page and the Blonde Intelligence LLC Facebook page. It's still floating out there but for some reason, when they deleted my one account, I cannot get back into it, and they were like you have to sign in from a computer that you already on Did all of this. Big problem, big problem, big problem. But anyway, on social media and you can get your merch at wwwblonde-intelligencecom and if you have any questions for me, hit me on the website and you can hit the contact page and I will answer you. But anyway, I will see you next week. Bye.

Speaker 1:

Hey, girl, let me tell you about this podcast. Girl, everybody has a podcast these days, but this one interviews new and interesting indie artists. It's called Indie Artist Music Hosting with Blunt Intelligence. Really, where can I find it? It's on all podcasting platforms, streams live on social media and on rpentradiocom, would you say it was called. Again, it's called indie artist music hustle with blind intelligence. Girl, I'm gonna have to check her out. Give it a check, girl.