Kendrick Lamar Disses Drake And J. Cole On Like That: Lyrics Meaning, Explained

Kendrick Lamar has said some things about Drake and J. Cole in his new song “Like That.” He’s talking about not liking when people talk bad about him behind his back. He also says he’s not afraid to stand up for himself. Kendrick talks about feeling paranoid and having bad memories. He’s not happy with the idea of a “big three” in rap, saying it’s just him that matters.

Kendrick also mentions Drake’s last album and a scary movie called “Pet Sematary.” These things might mean something important to him, but we’re not sure exactly what.

Kendrick and Drake have worked together a few times in the past, but there’s always been a bit of competition between them. Even though they’ve made music together, Kendrick seems like he wants to show he’s better.

Kendrick also talks about a time when he and J. Cole were thinking about making an album together. They talked about it a lot, but it never happened. J. Cole has said they needed more time to make something really good.

This new song is on an album by Future and Metro Boomin. Kendrick usually works on different kinds of music, so it’s interesting to hear him on this album.

Quote:

“Think I won’t drop the location? I still got PTSD. Motherfuck the big three, nigga, it’s just big me.” – Kendrick Lamar

Breaking Down the Lyrics

In “Like That,” Kendrick is unafraid. He begins by declaring his hatred for “sneak dissing,” expressing his willingness to face any challenge. Kendrick shows his dominance in the rap scene by disregarding the concept of a “big three” and bringing out his own importance.

[Verse 2: Kendrick Lamar]

These guys are talking nonsense
Kendrick starts by saying that some people are speaking without making sense. Talking “nonsense” means talking foolishly.

Don’t say anything dangerous, I’m too scared for that
Here, Kendrick warns against making dangerous threats or speaking negatively about him. He implies that he is too cautious and afraid of danger to take such threats lightly.

Hey, let’s do it, buddy
This line serves as a transition, signaling a change in tone or topic. Kendrick seems to be getting ready for something important.

D-O-T, the money, power, respect
“D-O-T” likely refers to Kendrick’s nickname “Kung-Fu Kenny.” He mentions “money, power, respect,” which are often seen as symbols of success and influence in society.

Respect is the most important
This line suggests that out of the three elements mentioned, “respect” holds the most importance to Kendrick.

There are many foolish people with money
Kendrick comments on the prevalence of individuals who may have financial success but lack authenticity or credibility.

I mean, um, I hope those feelings are meaningful
Kendrick reflects on the meaningfulness behind certain feelings or actions. He seems to be questioning the sincerity or importance of these gestures.

My mood changes quickly, I choose to be violent
Kendrick acknowledges his own inner conflict and tendency towards aggression or confrontation when provoked.

Alright, let’s do it, it’s time for him to prove that he’s a problem
Here, Kendrick appears to be preparing for a confrontation or challenge, suggesting that someone needs to prove their worth or capability.

People are forming groups, but they’re not honest, no 40 Water, tell them
Kendrick comments on the formation of alliances or groups, implying that some individuals may not be genuine or trustworthy. “40 Water” may refer to rapper E-40, known for his authenticity and credibility.

Alright, yeah, um, yeah, come talk to me
Kendrick invites others to engage with him, perhaps indicating a readiness for conflict or competition.

Forget about making indirect insults, let’s face it directly, I hope they came prepared
Kendrick expresses dislike for indirect insults or subliminal disses. He compares himself to a “first person shooter,” suggesting he’s ready to engage in direct confrontation. The mention of “three switches” implies readiness for a violent encounter.

I’m ready to leave, even if it means saying bad things about respected people
Kendrick suggests he’s willing to abandon his rap career altogether if necessary, emphasizing his commitment to authenticity and integrity. Mentioning “Melle Mel” could be a reference to engaging with even the most respected figures in hip-hop history.

I have companions with me, I’m ready for action
Kendrick asserts his readiness for action, mentioning companions (“2TEEZ”) and implying a willingness to engage in physical altercations (“snatching chains and burning tattoos”).

I’ve lost too many friends to take risks
Kendrick reflects on past losses or hardships, indicating a reluctance to take unnecessary risks.

If someone is carrying a weapon, they’re not like Andre 3000
Here, Kendrick suggests that if someone is carrying a weapon (“stick”), they are not on the same level as the legendary rapper Andre 3000, who is known for his peaceful and non-violent persona.

Think I won’t reveal my location? I still have PTSD
Kendrick asserts that he’s not afraid to reveal his location, despite past traumatic experiences that may have left him with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Forget about the big three, it’s just me
Kendrick dismisses the idea of a “big three” in hip-hop, asserting his own dominance and significance.

You think I’m weak? I’m really tough
Kendrick challenges anyone who doubts his authenticity or toughness, asserting that he is indeed as formidable as he claims to be.

Your best work is weak
Kendrick suggests that his adversaries’ efforts are not impressive, implying that they are lacking in substance or quality.

Prince lived longer than Michael Jackson
Here, Kendrick compares the longevity and impact of Prince and Michael Jackson, suggesting that enduring impact is more important than fleeting success.

Before all your friends get hurt
Kendrick warns his adversaries that they and their associates will face negative consequences if they continue to provoke him.

That’s a serious threat
Kendrick references the movie “Pet Sematary,” suggesting that his adversaries will face dire consequences similar to those depicted in the film.

You’re not worthy
Kendrick concludes with a final dismissal of his adversaries, asserting his superiority and dominance.

Kendrick Lamar verse on Like That lyrics

These niggas talkin’ out of they necks
Don’t pull no coffin out of your mouth, I’m way too paranoid for a threat
Ayy-ayy, let’s get it, bro
D-O-T, the money, power, respect
The last one is better
Say, it’s a lot of goofies with a check
I mean, ah, I hope them sentiments symbolic
Ah, my temperament bipolar, I choose violence
Okay, let’s get it up, it’s time for him to prove that he’s a problem
Niggas clickin’ up, but cannot be legit, no 40 Water, tell ’em
Ah, yeah, huh, yeah, get up with me
Fuck sneak dissin’, first person shooter, I hope they came with three switches
I crash out, like, “Fuck rap,” diss Melle Mel if I had to
Got 2TEEZ with me, I’m snatchin’ chains and burnin’ tattoos, it’s up
Lost too many soldiers not to play it safe
If he walk around with that stick, it ain’t Andre 3K
Think I won’t drop the location? I still got PTSD
Motherfuck the big three, nigga, it’s just big me
Nigga, bum, what? I’m really like that
And your best work is a light pack
Nigga, Prince outlived Mike Jack’
Nigga, bum, ‘fore all your dogs gettin’ buried
That’s a K with all these nines, he gon’ see Pet Sematary
Nigga, bum.