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Paras Griffin / Contributor via Getty Images and Joseph Okpako / Contributor via Getty Images
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Pusha T and Kendrick Lamar
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Pusha T believes that Kendrick Lamar headlining the Super Bowl LIX is “fantastic” for the culture of lyric-oriented Hip Hop, he expressed on Saturday (Sept. 21). While participating in a panel at 2024’s REVOLT WORLD, the Virginia rapper voiced his opinion on the selection for the halftime performance, which has sparked significant discussion lately, particularly following Lil Wayne’s recent comments.
“I know folks have been telling him throughout his career, ‘You’re a talented rapper. You’re exceptional, but you might want to change your style. You need to produce hits like this,’” Pusha remarked. “It’s exhilarating to see him remain authentic, the lyric monarch,” he elaborated.
“Listeners who might not even focus on lyrics are singing along with his freestyles, battles, [and] tracks. It’s wonderful to witness,” he added. “This is advantageous for what we accomplish in lyric-centric Hip Hop.”
Pusha had earlier expressed his support for Lamar during the initial announcement of the halftime show — and potentially took a jab at Drake in the same breath. He reposted a quote from the “Alright” artist’s preview video, stating, “Only one chance to win a championship. No do-overs.” His Instagram Story was captioned, “This is a fact,” along with a shrug emoji.
It remains uncertain if the DAYTONA artist was alluding to his past confrontation with Drake, which led to “The Story of Adidon” and “Duppy Freestyle,” or simply extending his appreciation to Lamar, who alluded to him on “euphoria.”
“I don’t appreciate you coming for Pharrell, for him, I take on the rivalry/ Yeah, forget all that pushin’ P, show me you can push a T,” the Compton artist articulated in the April track. “You’d be better off reconsidering your approach with him, messing with me?/ He’s Terrence Thornton, I’m Terence Crawford, yeah, I’m dealing the blows.”
“Astounding. An astounding exhibition. A remarkable showcase of battle rap. Look, Kendrick…” Pusha responded to the lines in an interview with Vulture. His Clipse partner No Malice even referred to the song as a “master class.”
REVOLT WORLD concludes on Sunday (Sept. 22) with special performances from ScHoolboy Q, Cam’ron, and Boosie Badazz, among others.