Thats actually untrue.... And why we get 😡 We dont count the dead. Music is completely different now if we had Pac and Big for 10 more years...... Yall still think this about music 🤦🏾♀️
@@iluvdissheet You really don't understand contruction is a dangerous job and that enslaved and poor people have been working those jobs for hundreds of years?
@@philoubertjeanlouis4682 Considering the millions of slaves and indigenous people who’ve died throughout American history, and all major American conflicts roughly (very roughly) equal 1.5 million, it’s not a crazy statement. You could go deeper into it though.
"It's not my fault the best art in the world is being made by people who don't look like me or share my life experience." This is why you have every right to speak on these things. You genuinely love the artform and respect the culture. Ignore the negative comments, haters are a part of having any kind of attention.
I def respect that you feel uncomfortable with the “You’re Invited to the Cookout” comments.. But yeah yeah yeah , you’re still getting a plate my guy 🤣🤣🤣
Us too. His self awareness... is on another level! I was born in African, had to witness the still existing shackles of colonization and White supremacy... Then came here and had to find out the hard way that we were told lies by immigration services.. 'racism is a thing if the past'💔... " Stay away from those people that will tell you otherwise, they are not like you, they're just lazy...' 😞💔 That's their agenda, division and isolation to maintain control 👎💯... But because my babies were having experiences that proved otherwise... (And side note: parents, pls listen and believe your children, always...pls😢) So, I educated myself and mine, made sure to inspect every little aspect of their daily routines, learned my rights... Probably terrorized a few clear teachers who were doubling down on that... "We don't see color" BS... And aligned myself with brothers and sisters who walked me through all the sometimes horrifying situations 💔🕊️... So I appreciate the efforts of this super ally... Allies do Matter❤
I would love to be where you are, I hope the community as a whole continues to ride the wave of "Unity", and pride. They Not Like Us....L.A.'s youth has the wheel right now, I'm ready to ride. I hope is speak for many more.
I've only known of this man's existence for like 5 days and I am impressed. I don't know if you've got a team of people or if you're doing all this yourself but I'm loving what I'm seeing. You seem natural enough that I imagine you're doing all of this on your own. 💪
AVAA! I wish more people understood that HipHop started as a movement for peace, love & unity and that it was a force for stopping gang violence - as you pointed out. Youth went from fighting in the streets to battling on the mic, on the turntables and on the dance floor. So many think of it as a violent movement and denigrate it, tho it merely reflects the conditions it came from (no different than the blues). Violence will be a part of the culture until _conditions_ change... not the other way around. Keep up the great work, Skye!
Just a minor correction Prof, Mexicans don't celebrate their culture on Cinco de Mayo. That's a white drinking holiday. Mexicans celebrate on Sept 16th.
@MrJCerqueira Hi! Mexican here! Cinco de Mayo is a victory over the second French empire in Puebla. We are not South American, with all love to my South American family. Thanks!
@@MrJCerqueiraMexican here again we are North American/central in some parts Sep 16 is our Independence Day the victory over the French was our celebration of removing all colonial influence from our country
This is already an AVAA, even thought I'm only 16 minutes in because I just had to make a comment about your explanation on the use of boundaries. Because I think you're spot on and then some about the perspective of boundaries when it comes to both you and Kendrick. As a recovering Doormat and People-pleaser, the most revelatory advice my therapist gave me was on the "purpose" for setting boundaries. That setting boundaries is often incorrectly perceived as petty control or cruel punishment, when in actuality it's an act that's rooted in compassion. It's telling the person(s): "I still want you in my life, I don't want to cut you off, but respect needs to be a two-way street. And these boundaries are the guardrails that'll lower the chances of our relationship ending in the gutter." For Kendrick, it's your observation on him using this diss battle as Black Culture's champion to suggest boundaries to the Black community when said Culture is being continually commodified and infiltrated. Then for you, it's the fact you set your own personal boundaries about purposefully remaining an outside observer out of respect and love for HipHop/Black Culture as a White man, even while receiving "invitations to the cookout" comments. Which is (and let's be honest) baseline respect that many white Hip Hop fans fail to clear. Don't get me wrong, the performance & the drama from THE BEEF, along with the memes inspired by the aforementioned factors have been the best moments in pop-culture in recent memory. But It's just very validating that nuanced commentary like this is also equal when it comes to this Beef, and that it doesn't stop at just the artists involved in it, but also the consumption of it by Hip Hop fans (communal or outsider).
@@thephantom2459if you hear the demo leak … he called out a few rappers (including Drake) by name. i am very curious to see how this would’ve gone if it happened in 2017 instead of 2024.
I caught the Ferris Bueller reference. I love that you know your lane. Anyone who isn't expecting to be invited to the cookout is probably worthy of an eventbrite link.
The world doesn't need more saviors. It doesn't need more "face of ___"s. It needs more people willing to stand together in conflict and make a statement, not just people waiting for a talking head to stand over the crowd.
He’s simply a man that chooses to push himself to become the best artist that he could be, actually he said he wanted to be the absolute best lyricist in the world(a childhood goal). He works on it everyday, refuses to be distracted from that mission to complete this goal. Absolutely understanding his strengths & learning his weaknesses, as well as his bad decisions. His introspective is incredible. His self discipline is so rare in a world that has sped up everything. Hardworking requires dedication& commitment. It’s rare to see someone so young continue to be so wise. Precious & rare.
@@sharronjones1017that’s all 📠; BUT, I think he makes some declarative statements on Mr. Morale that sort of presage all of this that’s happened in 2024. If Kendrick believes what he clearly does about Drake, then Mr Morale MUST call out Drake and destroy him if need be. Otherwise he’d just be another dude giving abusive people (and particularly men) a pass. I’m not saying I think Kendrick owes that- I think he said that.
I am glad someone has pointed out the need for boundaries. “Other” people getting mad that they are not part of the “US” is weird. You have your own groups that you are apart of and no one says anything. The minute American Black culture says this is the boundary there’s a problem and everyone else need to be included. Excellent breakdown.
We are actively excluded from some of the groups.....even in todays age..I was once unfortunate to support a very rich white man in England who lived in his very wealthy community where they voted on who wld buy their neighbour's houses....and they always voted white or if any color..Asian.. NO BLACKS...I say unfortunate coz there I was as a.black.nurse....sitting in this room full of these.people who intellectually thought that was OK to not open discuss..but as a community..to ENFORCE...and I came form colonial southern Africa with active segregation......this world saddens me.....for me..I'm pro me and pro my people..coz we hv been excluded and marginalised enough already...
Very well put. As a born Jamaican 🇯🇲 who was raised in the US from the age of 7, I'm conflicted with this because my mindset is pro black American but because I have the Jamaican pride, I'm often told I'm not one of "us". But I definitely understand the nuances and why the boundaries are there.
Livestreaming the show at 3am alone in my bedroom was insane. It felt so... cathartic. "I make music that electrify 'em" never felt more true. And if I felt like that, as a middle class white girl from rural Wales, I can't imagine how it felt for everyone who is part of that community and culture. Absolutely incredible. Hip-hop at it's finest ❤️
As a NY'er.....your feelings were FELT. I dont think i ever went to a complete all New Yorkers Show from the dj to all talent? Jay's 4:44 and maybe Wu-tang....maybe a block party. Always another artist on stage who did not rep the big apple. This diffefent. And streamed....🫣
Same here, just a Belgian white guy getting emotional and teary-eyed over live-streamed LA diss records at 5am in my bedroom. Kendrick is truly something else. It's an experience etched in my mind. Zero regrets.
I was in portugal trying not to wake my mom up at 3 am lol, it's crazy how across the world kendrick can connect to people who aren't part of the culture, just shows how great of an artists and performer him and everyone at the concert was
It was a triple entendres…😂he dressed like Pac, he wore the colors of the gangs to unify, and he wore, as well as, did the dance in the exact get up of Drake in Hotline Bling. Chef’s kiss!
I came to see how you broke down the concert and came out with resources to help my mental and emotional well-being. I did not see that coming. Thank you for seeing what it is like to be a disenfranchised person and articulating why we need our boundaries and respecting both us and said boundaries.
AVAA I'm a little speechless. This is among the best vids I've ever watched on this platform or any for that matter. Genuinely. This hits me on SO MANY levels. And now I'm in tears 🥲
Thank you so much for your insight into boundaries. As someone who struggles with them, your viewpoint crystallizes what healthy ones look and feel like. Appreciate you, prof! AVAA
AVAA I supremely appreciate your breakdown of this concert. I saw some comments about Hispanics being upset that they weren't represented but it wasn't about them. Let us celebrate us on the day we fought for. We appreciate the contributions of others but we don't always have to include everyone in our stuff. That's how it keeps being taken away.
I see the cookout "invitation" as really more of a claiming by the Black community of a person we like and see as an ally. It's basically saying we feel like we can be Black around this person without having to filter it through whiteness, an acknowledgement more white people should be like this person. A cookout is communal, it's not saying you're like us - it's saying you can come through and get a plate because you come correct as it pertains to the Black community
I’m happy you’ve mentioned your discomfort with “the cookout” invites. Not all Black Americans feel the same about that too. And I wouldn’t personally equate the Pop Out show to “the cookout”. But I understand your sentiment and appreciate you respecting spaces Black American people carve out for ourselves.
It's honestly refreshing to hear it from another perspective ive watched a few of your videos very impressive and I like the way you don't try to hard and you're honest. I appreciate your content AVAA
you are very genuine I've been watching all your vids since the kdot beef put you on my feed. The cookout invitation always extended from my family. like the king of the west said, Unity. AVAA
A mini anecdotal. I'm an asian, lived my life in weedy los Angeles suburbs, amidst black and hispanic cultures; I experienced rejection and pushback from my own people for the friends I made and the life I lived. I lived my whole life seeing and experiencing divisions. Kendrick's actions caused the biggest unification I ever personally saw. I hope there are not people trying to steal this moment from those of the culture, or from black folks that this all resonates with on a personal level. The hardest boundary I witnessed so far is the one drawn between people who are authentic and able to celebrate themselves... and those who are liars, exploiters, and awful. And in my mind that is a very beautiful thing. You're right that boundaries are important. The argument shouldn't be whether boundaries are good or bad; it's where you draw that line that matters, and I think the boundaries Kendrick set are so important- not just for his community, but for music as a whole. I'm rambling now, it's 3am, but anyway I hope anyone who reads this has a great day.
AVAA. I really could never have imagined when I was frantically trying to find the meaning of Snow Globes by BC,NR that I would stumble across a channel that would (aside from being AAA) help me through my dad’s death and give such great advice/book recommendations for coming to terms with my upbringing. Glad you’re seeing such success for your stuff, keep up the great work
You should definitely look into the history of the venue prof, cause the forum has a VERY rich history to the culture of hip hop and thus I assume black America. AVAA ❤
Came here for an in-depth analysis of Kendrick uniting the LA against the colonizer, now I am here searching for a Russian version of the "Emotionally Immature Parents" book because that's exactly what me and my fiance need. Thanks a bunch for the recommendation Professor Skye, you never fail to deliver videos worth watching and sharing (AVAA, OVHOE)
AVAA!! What you said about pro-blackness being falsely labeled as anti-whiteness made me think of a skit from Solange's "A Seat at the Table" which says the same thing almost verbatim. That record is one of my favorites and if you have a chance to check out some music that hasn't just come out, I highly recommend it. The theme of the record is perfectly reflective of that sentiment and the song "Mad" with Lil Wayne makes me cry and Wayne's verse is one of the best he's ever recorded in my opinion.
I love your show. It was so worth it again thank you very much for your commentary. It was wonderful. I will continue to follow and share. Don’t stop. You’re doing an excellent job.…!!!❤
Kendrick is a consummate performer. He had that crowd in the palm of his hand from the time he started performing Euphoria from a crouched position. By the time he got to “Not Like Us,” they were primed!!! No Mr. Morale songs or Meet the Grahams because he was setting tone. I realized when I was watching for the second time the following day.
I’ve listened to a few of your videos on this subject , it’s always on point. I can feel your GENUINE RESPECT for the culture and craft. The passion is undeniable. I’m with you Brother. I’m tapped in! Great stuff 👍🏿
AVAA. As a Texan, I appreciate not having to explain Juneteenth anymore. Nice take on the event, you have given me a lot to think about. I am using this as my personal growth for today.
I love your thoughts 💭 You are one of the few who really receives and breaks this down with such a unbiased view like it comes from a well thought out observation. You are so respectful and well seen for understanding the importance of how deep these topics you hold space for goes.. You are one of the greats because you see people at the highest level wish your fellow comrades shared in this… much love to you ❤
this beef is about much more than just culture too. another angle is that its also about who's the ideal artist: the one with quantity and consistent output and recognition, or the one who dwells on his art for years if needed in order for it to be quality (and is capable of sacrificing recognition and validation). and thats a dichotomy in which i, a white man can actually choose a side
Alright, I'm only like 4 minutes in, but I wanted to weigh in anyways. I still see the "They" in "They not like Us" as being Culture Vultures. Granted, I am black, but a black kid that grew up in largely white spaces. So it could be that I am just missing something. But tbh I couldn't see Kendrick making all people who aren't like him catch a stray just because Drake is a huge dick. He doesn't seem to have much bad to say about people who enjoy rap and hip hop, as long as they stay in their lane, as Drake continued to refuse to do. Hence, "We don't wanna hear you say n[eighbor] no more" from Euphoria. Drake's problem wasn't that he wasn't In The Culture so much as he tried to insert himself into it by force and strip away it's meaning and artistry by basically playing a black "gangsta" stereotype. That would rub anyone the wrong way. In terms of "Culture", I would say I'm damn near as "white" as he is, but you will never see me fronting and pretending to be someone I'm not to "fit in" or "look tough". I was born an oreo, and I'll die as one LMAO. That's just how it is sometimes! (AVAA lol)
Just a gentle suggestion: I recommend watching Dr. Robin DiAngelo’s 2019 Lecture…… you are probably already familiar with her work but I think her work and this lecture will give more nuanced insight into SOME of the internal motivation behind the setting up of boundaries and gatekeeping of black culture.
George Orwell is a necessary read or reread if that’s your thing. AVAA. I couldn’t remember your name, but I actually looked forward to this. I stand in solidarity with Kendrick, Kapernick, Umar, and a ton of others who are fighting for liberty! Liberty… we’re still seeking liberty people! Your introduction wasn’t necessary, lol! We appreciate “well spoken,” “articulate” white folk😂!! -2024 June 19, 2025 Pop Out Day ✊🏿 Edit: I learned there’s a dance called THE SMURF! 😂😂😂😂 See, you are useful!
Sometimes your videos bring a tear to my eye. So well spoken and thought provoking. Long time watcher, first time commenter. Love your work Skye. Can’t wait for the next one. AVAA
i've seen a lot of justin hunt going back to all the clips he made for hiphopdx, and hearing someone else say "punch yourself in the face" made me lol avaa
As a Latina, I’m also not a part of the culture, but I’ve been appreciating it so much. Kendrick expanded my perspective on hip hop as an art form and a movement in a way that just hadn’t happened before.
Omg, I gotta purchase that book! On the strength of confirmations alone. Our community guilts you with, “you only have one mother/ father” I’m venting, my apologies 😔🤣
AVAA my little black girl who loves Greek history LIVED for the Hector and Achilles metaphor!!!! So apt, so poignant and so MF true!!! Sending love from Italy, Prof. Please do a breakdown on King Kunta after this, because that flew over so many people's heads. Love from a black lady Italy.
AAVA but I've been thinking about something you said in the original Not Like Us video (I didn't comment at the time because I saw the video some 5 days or more after it's release) you mentioned colonization and brought up a scene from Monty Python and the Life of Brian, making the point that "yes, Drake did colonise the rappers he collaborated with but they also benefitted from it. While I do agree with the sentiment about Drake and the artists he colonised/collaborated with benefitting from said collaboration/colonisation, I do think there was something harmful about the way you presented your argument because at least to me, it made it seem as if you were downplaying the evils of colonisation as a whole (this is just my perspective of how the argument was presented, I'm not necessarily saying you meant any harm). And while I could make every argument Shashi Tharoor made in his speech at Oxford in the exact same order as him, I would rather just recommend that you watch the recording of it on the Oxford Union TH-cam channel, he's far more eloquent and funny than I am. But to gravely oversimplify his point, a lot of countries were able to make the same developments "brought" by colonisers without having to be colonised to do so. Speaking from just the Indian perspective (since I am an Indian), all "developments" the British brought to our shores were for the benefit of the British. I shall stop plagarising Tharoor's speech now and simply enjoy the remaining 30 minutes of what I am sure is another great video.
That’s a good connection. Drake may have put people on but it is basically a meme now about how Drake treats artists signed to his label. It’s why The Weeknd did so much to avoid signing with him (including writing a bulk of the take care album).
i wish i could like this commentary multiple times. and i was thinking about how the phrase "woke" was co-opted for years now. Dense, in-depth, and showing what the heart of commentary should be! Not vulturing for clicks but bringing insights it's clear only you could provide. Thanks for this prof
Excellent video - sharing this with my family and friends. Fun fact - the women dancing to Not Like Us were led by Storm DeBarge, daughter of El DeBarge (of the famous family music group DeBarge).
I went to the Pop Out. There were definitely people singing to Not Like Us just because they hate Drake. Yes, there was a lot of Hip Hop love at the Kia Forum that night, but it's disingenuous to say there was no Drake hate there.
In fact, I suspect a lot of Drake hate mobilized people to attend. Before the concert even started, I took video of a guy thanking Kendrick and saying that Drake wasn't going to emerge from "this" "clean". There was definitely Drake hate motivating (what I suspect to be) a lot of attendees.
AVAA: Kendrick’s song exposes the complexity of culture. On the surface it is exactly a 21st century “I’m black and I’m Proud” who’s time has come~but the nature of his symbolic target, it’s also about specifically, American Blackness. As gen X, it’s so interesting bc 30 yrs ago if someone would’ve told me that it would be a 21st century rap/hip hop artist that would bring this necessary energy, I would’ve laughed a bit, or a lot. This song exposes the complexity of black American culture and American culture at large. He authorized the use of the hook for the DNCC, after all. I’m still possible his vision of his song has evolved even for him bc there is some bridgework occurring with this little clever ditty. I’ve heard artists speak about this phenomenon, they had one meaning when they wrote it but marveled at the meaning songs held with individual or collective fanbases. It’s interesting that a song that on its surface would seem divisive holds a subversive collective solidarity about “like us” American to many folks who have felt on the fringes or at the margins of dominant culture since, well, forever~but also the folks who were born seemingly at the tip of the spear in their ever-expanding awareness. Seemingly out of step with all sorts of intra/inter-group dominant thought…much like the songs author, Kendrick Lamar. His story always hit me that internally he always felt different even in the subculture in which he held membership. Anyway~you’re future man. Living in the space where dominant culture hasn’t caught up with yet. I’ve lived in this space my entire life as well. So, I recognize my kind. You’re holding space for tomorrow’s people~where possibly our art can be one day celebrated for what it is…American genius. And we can all share it as such. The song is genius and this song is special. PS I’m a clinical social worker and I’m so glad you brought in the reality of complex PTSD. What I’ve seen is we’ve all suffered from our history~the progeny of the oppressor group runs from the trauma of this association ~those whom hold themselves consciously in high egalitarian standards, yet struggle with denied anti-black bias due to the avoidance..inadvertently visiting aggressions on to the progeny of once enslaved then segregated people. We’re all living history, and those of us at the tip of the spear (with respect to awareness and insight which our culture couldn’t have possibly generated, much less nurtured) , in my opinion, hold the space for, and through our individual actions and gifts help to bring the healing one step at a time. I LOVE your channel!!
“more americans died building this country than defending it” is a great way to put it prof! much love as always AVAA
Thats actually untrue....
And why we get 😡
We dont count the dead.
Music is completely different now if we had Pac and Big for 10 more years......
Yall still think this about music 🤦🏾♀️
@@iluvdissheetDon’t forget your meds!
@@iluvdissheet You really don't understand contruction is a dangerous job and that enslaved and poor people have been working those jobs for hundreds of years?
Is that actually true? We’ve been in a lot of wars so they’d be crazy if it is.
@@philoubertjeanlouis4682 Considering the millions of slaves and indigenous people who’ve died throughout American history, and all major American conflicts roughly (very roughly) equal 1.5 million, it’s not a crazy statement. You could go deeper into it though.
"It's not my fault the best art in the world is being made by people who don't look like me or share my life experience." This is why you have every right to speak on these things. You genuinely love the artform and respect the culture. Ignore the negative comments, haters are a part of having any kind of attention.
Facts
I def respect that you feel uncomfortable with the “You’re Invited to the Cookout” comments.. But yeah yeah yeah , you’re still getting a plate my guy 🤣🤣🤣
I’m a black woman raised in Watts and South Los Angeles and I think your commentary is great. I love hearing all people’s perspective!!
Me to. From Detroit
Born in NY, raised in LA. Intellectual and sincere dialogue is always appreciated. What you look like shouldn't factor in.
Us too. His self awareness... is on another level! I was born in African, had to witness the still existing shackles of colonization and White supremacy... Then came here and had to find out the hard way that we were told lies by immigration services.. 'racism is a thing if the past'💔... " Stay away from those people that will tell you otherwise, they are not like you, they're just lazy...' 😞💔 That's their agenda, division and isolation to maintain control 👎💯... But because my babies were having experiences that proved otherwise... (And side note: parents, pls listen and believe your children, always...pls😢) So, I educated myself and mine, made sure to inspect every little aspect of their daily routines, learned my rights... Probably terrorized a few clear teachers who were doubling down on that... "We don't see color" BS... And aligned myself with brothers and sisters who walked me through all the sometimes horrifying situations 💔🕊️... So I appreciate the efforts of this super ally... Allies do Matter❤
I would love to be where you are, I hope the community as a whole continues to ride the wave of "Unity", and pride. They Not Like Us....L.A.'s youth has the wheel right now, I'm ready to ride. I hope is speak for many more.
APAPn.b😅😮 tv
“No jumper my way into the conversation “ That’s why you are the best Prof skye 😂😂
I caught that too! Well said!
came looking for this comment
As an African American, I enjoy your perspective on music and the culture. Both are done respectfully and tastefully.
@@charmanesmith6244 Barz
@@charmanesmith6244 lol
Absolutely
Ditto💯💯💯🎯🎯👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽
I've only known of this man's existence for like 5 days and I am impressed. I don't know if you've got a team of people or if you're doing all this yourself but I'm loving what I'm seeing. You seem natural enough that I imagine you're doing all of this on your own. 💪
I make the videos entirely on my own (part of why I don’t edit) but I have a lot of support from my wife to have the time to dedicate to the channel.
@@professorskye we love u
@@professorskyelove you sir, been watching since your WLR vid at the start of 2021
@@professorskyeholy smoly, God bless ur wife^-^ ❤❤ and thank you sir m7m7
You feel that way because he knows thyself! Therefore… we can actually appreciate his rhetoric.
AVAA! I wish more people understood that HipHop started as a movement for peace, love & unity and that it was a force for stopping gang violence - as you pointed out. Youth went from fighting in the streets to battling on the mic, on the turntables and on the dance floor.
So many think of it as a violent movement and denigrate it, tho it merely reflects the conditions it came from (no different than the blues). Violence will be a part of the culture until _conditions_ change... not the other way around.
Keep up the great work, Skye!
The apples and cheese bar was too funny. Top tier dad joke 🤣
It brought a smile to my cold heart 😊
Yes!! I love corny dad jokes so much 😂😂😂😂
Just a minor correction Prof, Mexicans don't celebrate their culture on Cinco de Mayo. That's a white drinking holiday. Mexicans celebrate on Sept 16th.
you explained this perfectly.
correct. it's literally just the fifth of may. and mexicans are just a slice of south american peoples.
@@MrJCerqueiraI think in the moment he was calling out ethnicity rather than racial
@MrJCerqueira Hi! Mexican here! Cinco de Mayo is a victory over the second French empire in Puebla. We are not South American, with all love to my South American family. Thanks!
@@MrJCerqueiraMexican here again we are North American/central in some parts
Sep 16 is our Independence Day the victory over the French was our celebration of removing all colonial influence from our country
I'm black and I love your perspective. Unlike many, you actually seems like you go deep to try to understand us. Thanks
It’s deep and it’s in the nuances of the overall experimenting it and conversations!!
And the historic hip hop references are insane
Ditto👍🏽
Josh Johnson is on another level right now. Great shoutout
@Josh Johnson- Come & Get Your Love!!! Shout out to @Redbone too..
for real, dude's killing it rn
Took over my algorithm
😂yep just heard of him a few months ago and have been binge watching everything wanna go to one of his live shows
ADOS mentioned 😊
This is already an AVAA, even thought I'm only 16 minutes in because I just had to make a comment about your explanation on the use of boundaries. Because I think you're spot on and then some about the perspective of boundaries when it comes to both you and Kendrick. As a recovering Doormat and People-pleaser, the most revelatory advice my therapist gave me was on the "purpose" for setting boundaries. That setting boundaries is often incorrectly perceived as petty control or cruel punishment, when in actuality it's an act that's rooted in compassion. It's telling the person(s): "I still want you in my life, I don't want to cut you off, but respect needs to be a two-way street. And these boundaries are the guardrails that'll lower the chances of our relationship ending in the gutter."
For Kendrick, it's your observation on him using this diss battle as Black Culture's champion to suggest boundaries to the Black community when said Culture is being continually commodified and infiltrated.
Then for you, it's the fact you set your own personal boundaries about purposefully remaining an outside observer out of respect and love for HipHop/Black Culture as a White man, even while receiving "invitations to the cookout" comments. Which is (and let's be honest) baseline respect that many white Hip Hop fans fail to clear.
Don't get me wrong, the performance & the drama from THE BEEF, along with the memes inspired by the aforementioned factors have been the best moments in pop-culture in recent memory. But It's just very validating that nuanced commentary like this is also equal when it comes to this Beef, and that it doesn't stop at just the artists involved in it, but also the consumption of it by Hip Hop fans (communal or outsider).
Absolutely right!
Imo K. Dot told us, this was not about no back and forth records.... The title was not a coincidence, not to mention a triple(maybe more) entendre.
@@highcee11"This ain't about critics, not about gimmicks, not about who the greatest"
- Kendrick Lamar, _Euphoria_
@andredunbar3773 "I'm what the culture feeling."
Helping the algorithm, great content.
Kendrick warned everyone not to test him and here we are.
Yet we still have people who accuse him of starting shit and doing too much, it's so annoying. 🙄
"Just say his name and I promise that you'll see candy man"-kendrick
@@thephantom2459if you hear the demo leak … he called out a few rappers (including Drake) by name. i am very curious to see how this would’ve gone if it happened in 2017 instead of 2024.
Just don’t bring potato salad with raisins to the table…. 😂😂😂
I would NEVER put the devil’s droppings in potato salad!
@@professorskye 🤣🤣🤣
@@professorskye🤣🤣🤣🤣 what the heck 🤣👏🏾👏🏾
I fell out.
@@professorskyeoutstanding 😂
The fact that you aren’t TRYING to get invited is probably the REASON you have been invited 😂
Booooommmmmm!!!!
Exactly!!!! one white man that will always be invited to my cook out! Prof is just a real one
Invited by whom?
@@oliverbranch777watch as we revoke your black card. Who are you to invite randos?
@@MahoganyHuesu know well that ur grandma would probably hand him a plate of chicken stop it 😂 i know my granny would lol🙏🏽
I caught the Ferris Bueller reference. I love that you know your lane. Anyone who isn't expecting to be invited to the cookout is probably worthy of an eventbrite link.
Yeah, this guy's a vibe for sure. He doesn't try to put on like he's hip. So refreshing.
Kdot isn’t not the saviour. He is the protector of the culture
Thank yyou Kendrick for protecting gang banging
The world doesn't need more saviors. It doesn't need more "face of ___"s. It needs more people willing to stand together in conflict and make a statement, not just people waiting for a talking head to stand over the crowd.
Kdot: "I'm not your savior"
Everyone: "Our savior has spoken!"
He’s simply a man that chooses to push himself to become the best artist that he could be, actually he said he wanted to be the absolute best lyricist in the world(a childhood goal). He works on it everyday, refuses to be distracted from that mission to complete this goal. Absolutely understanding his strengths & learning his weaknesses, as well as his bad decisions. His introspective is incredible. His self discipline is so rare in a world that has sped up everything. Hardworking requires dedication& commitment. It’s rare to see someone so young continue to be so wise. Precious & rare.
@@sharronjones1017that’s all 📠; BUT, I think he makes some declarative statements on Mr. Morale that sort of presage all of this that’s happened in 2024. If Kendrick believes what he clearly does about Drake, then Mr Morale MUST call out Drake and destroy him if need be. Otherwise he’d just be another dude giving abusive people (and particularly men) a pass.
I’m not saying I think Kendrick owes that- I think he said that.
I am glad someone has pointed out the need for boundaries. “Other” people getting mad that they are not part of the “US” is weird. You have your own groups that you are apart of and no one says anything. The minute American Black culture says this is the boundary there’s a problem and everyone else need to be included. Excellent breakdown.
Word! Especially Hispanics lately
Right, we can’t have nothing just for “us” when all other cultures can and do!
We are actively excluded from some of the groups.....even in todays age..I was once unfortunate to support a very rich white man in England who lived in his very wealthy community where they voted on who wld buy their neighbour's houses....and they always voted white or if any color..Asian.. NO BLACKS...I say unfortunate coz there I was as a.black.nurse....sitting in this room full of these.people who intellectually thought that was OK to not open discuss..but as a community..to ENFORCE...and I came form colonial southern Africa with active segregation......this world saddens me.....for me..I'm pro me and pro my people..coz we hv been excluded and marginalised enough already...
Very well put. As a born Jamaican 🇯🇲 who was raised in the US from the age of 7, I'm conflicted with this because my mindset is pro black American but because I have the Jamaican pride, I'm often told I'm not one of "us".
But I definitely understand the nuances and why the boundaries are there.
Livestreaming the show at 3am alone in my bedroom was insane. It felt so... cathartic. "I make music that electrify 'em" never felt more true.
And if I felt like that, as a middle class white girl from rural Wales, I can't imagine how it felt for everyone who is part of that community and culture. Absolutely incredible. Hip-hop at it's finest ❤️
Historic and we appreciate people from all over the world tuning in!
Black man from Barcelona Spain (Xpain) here... It was incredible...
Thanks for this breakdown...
As a NY'er.....your feelings were FELT.
I dont think i ever went to a complete all New Yorkers Show from the dj to all talent?
Jay's 4:44 and maybe Wu-tang....maybe a block party.
Always another artist on stage who did not rep the big apple.
This diffefent. And streamed....🫣
Same here, just a Belgian white guy getting emotional and teary-eyed over live-streamed LA diss records at 5am in my bedroom. Kendrick is truly something else. It's an experience etched in my mind. Zero regrets.
I was in portugal trying not to wake my mom up at 3 am lol, it's crazy how across the world kendrick can connect to people who aren't part of the culture, just shows how great of an artists and performer him and everyone at the concert was
It was a triple entendres…😂he dressed like Pac, he wore the colors of the gangs to unify, and he wore, as well as, did the dance in the exact get up of Drake in Hotline Bling. Chef’s kiss!
I'm from ethiopia🇪🇹. i have watched many of your analysis on hip-hop and i liked your insights. i was waiting for your reaction 👏👏👏👏
Same here Habesha lol. This is dope
Your country's cuisine is friggin amazing.
I am a 47 year old black woman. I ❤ hip hop! It is clear that you ❤ hip hop! I appreciate you. And you do bring a lot to the conversation..
I came to see how you broke down the concert and came out with resources to help my mental and emotional well-being. I did not see that coming.
Thank you for seeing what it is like to be a disenfranchised person and articulating why we need our boundaries and respecting both us and said boundaries.
AVAA I'm a little speechless. This is among the best vids I've ever watched on this platform or any for that matter. Genuinely.
This hits me on SO MANY levels.
And now I'm in tears 🥲
thumbnail game incredible
Thank you so much for your insight into boundaries. As someone who struggles with them, your viewpoint crystallizes what healthy ones look and feel like. Appreciate you, prof! AVAA
AVAA I supremely appreciate your breakdown of this concert. I saw some comments about Hispanics being upset that they weren't represented but it wasn't about them. Let us celebrate us on the day we fought for. We appreciate the contributions of others but we don't always have to include everyone in our stuff. That's how it keeps being taken away.
Also, OhGeesy was part of it…. He’s Mexican, clearly they didnt watch
We don’t invite them, they invite themselves.( then they steal it.)
I see the cookout "invitation" as really more of a claiming by the Black community of a person we like and see as an ally. It's basically saying we feel like we can be Black around this person without having to filter it through whiteness, an acknowledgement more white people should be like this person. A cookout is communal, it's not saying you're like us - it's saying you can come through and get a plate because you come correct as it pertains to the Black community
I’m happy you’ve mentioned your discomfort with “the cookout” invites. Not all Black Americans feel the same about that too. And I wouldn’t personally equate the Pop Out show to “the cookout”. But I understand your sentiment and appreciate you respecting spaces Black American people carve out for ourselves.
It's honestly refreshing to hear it from another perspective ive watched a few of your videos very impressive and I like the way you don't try to hard and you're honest. I appreciate your content AVAA
The Trojan War comparison was really good. I honestly didn't expect to hear that from rap beef. Good stuff. AVAA
I love this channel man. That excerpt you read about relationships hit home so hard for me, and I really needed to hear it. Thank you.
Nah no jumper caught a stray 😂
Does anybody actually respect No Jumper?
@@roachdoggjr4648Hell naw.
They deserve. What a disgusting channel. Just like akademiks Chicago coverage
I appreciate your analysis and opinions on hip-hop. You really know how to discuss THE ART of it.
Found this channel a few weeks ago but I appreciate the sincerity and perspective. There's an appreciation for the culture
I'm only a quarter in and am reminded why I come to hear your opinion, what an awesome comparison/analogy
Thumbnail game on point😤😤👌🏿
This battle was very much needed. I hope it taught ppl the difference between Race, Nationality, and Culture. They are not the same.
I appreciate your viewpoint and voice. 🙏
Keep doing your thing cuz real recognize real, ya feel?
Much love!
you are very genuine I've been watching all your vids since the kdot beef put you on my feed. The cookout invitation always extended from my family. like the king of the west said, Unity. AVAA
A mini anecdotal. I'm an asian, lived my life in weedy los Angeles suburbs, amidst black and hispanic cultures; I experienced rejection and pushback from my own people for the friends I made and the life I lived. I lived my whole life seeing and experiencing divisions. Kendrick's actions caused the biggest unification I ever personally saw. I hope there are not people trying to steal this moment from those of the culture, or from black folks that this all resonates with on a personal level.
The hardest boundary I witnessed so far is the one drawn between people who are authentic and able to celebrate themselves... and those who are liars, exploiters, and awful. And in my mind that is a very beautiful thing. You're right that boundaries are important. The argument shouldn't be whether boundaries are good or bad; it's where you draw that line that matters, and I think the boundaries Kendrick set are so important- not just for his community, but for music as a whole. I'm rambling now, it's 3am, but anyway I hope anyone who reads this has a great day.
AVAA. I really could never have imagined when I was frantically trying to find the meaning of Snow Globes by BC,NR that I would stumble across a channel that would (aside from being AAA) help me through my dad’s death and give such great advice/book recommendations for coming to terms with my upbringing. Glad you’re seeing such success for your stuff, keep up the great work
Art is amazing,
You should definitely look into the history of the venue prof, cause the forum has a VERY rich history to the culture of hip hop and thus I assume black America. AVAA ❤
My mama said you can come fix you a plate 🤣
MASTERFUL 🙌🏾✨️ i appreciate the intent and genuine take on this! You get it.
There needs to be a cultural anthology class on hip-hop from every region of the country.
Came here for an in-depth analysis of Kendrick uniting the LA against the colonizer, now I am here searching for a Russian version of the "Emotionally Immature Parents" book because that's exactly what me and my fiance need. Thanks a bunch for the recommendation Professor Skye, you never fail to deliver videos worth watching and sharing
(AVAA, OVHOE)
AVAA!! What you said about pro-blackness being falsely labeled as anti-whiteness made me think of a skit from Solange's "A Seat at the Table" which says the same thing almost verbatim. That record is one of my favorites and if you have a chance to check out some music that hasn't just come out, I highly recommend it. The theme of the record is perfectly reflective of that sentiment and the song "Mad" with Lil Wayne makes me cry and Wayne's verse is one of the best he's ever recorded in my opinion.
AVAA for the really compelling thoughts about boundaries. Always love watching your videos because they spark my own thoughts.
It wasn't til I was in my late 30s/early 40s that I was able to set boundaries, sadly... it's a total game-changer 😊
Im glad you found peace....
Boundaries had Nothing to do with this beef.
But keep making progress 👍🏽
Doc, really kickass explanation and electrifying use of boundary psychology. I’m a therapist. And your explanation was pitch perfect. Bravo! 🎉🎉
You are my fav ha take that how you want 😂❤😎 been here since you began this. Love to see new people get familiar with you!
I love your show. It was so worth it again thank you very much for your commentary. It was wonderful. I will continue to follow and share. Don’t stop. You’re doing an excellent job.…!!!❤
Kendrick is a consummate performer. He had that crowd in the palm of his hand from the time he started performing Euphoria from a crouched position. By the time he got to “Not Like Us,” they were primed!!! No Mr. Morale songs or Meet the Grahams because he was setting tone. I realized when I was watching for the second time the following day.
What an amazing vídeo! Amazing toughts, amazing how easy you can explain such deep analysis!
I was waiting for u to comment on the concer!! Ty😊
I’ve listened to a few of your videos on this subject , it’s always on point. I can feel your GENUINE RESPECT for the culture and craft. The passion is undeniable. I’m with you Brother. I’m tapped in! Great stuff 👍🏿
AVAA.
As a Texan, I appreciate not having to explain Juneteenth anymore.
Nice take on the event, you have given me a lot to think about.
I am using this as my personal growth for today.
Snoop's last Death Row album was Tha Doggfather. He put out The Last Meal when he was on No Limit.
I love your thoughts 💭 You are one of the few who really receives and breaks this down with such a unbiased view like it comes from a well thought out observation. You are so respectful and well seen for understanding the importance of how deep these topics you hold space for goes.. You are one of the greats because you see people at the highest level wish your fellow comrades shared in this… much love to you ❤
Love. AVAA. Pete Walker and CPTSD are not recognized enough. As humans, we do not appreciate how we are all operating via childhood survival tactics.
this beef is about much more than just culture too. another angle is that its also about who's the ideal artist: the one with quantity and consistent output and recognition, or the one who dwells on his art for years if needed in order for it to be quality (and is capable of sacrificing recognition and validation). and thats a dichotomy in which i, a white man can actually choose a side
Alright, I'm only like 4 minutes in, but I wanted to weigh in anyways.
I still see the "They" in "They not like Us" as being Culture Vultures. Granted, I am black, but a black kid that grew up in largely white spaces. So it could be that I am just missing something. But tbh I couldn't see Kendrick making all people who aren't like him catch a stray just because Drake is a huge dick.
He doesn't seem to have much bad to say about people who enjoy rap and hip hop, as long as they stay in their lane, as Drake continued to refuse to do. Hence, "We don't wanna hear you say n[eighbor] no more" from Euphoria.
Drake's problem wasn't that he wasn't In The Culture so much as he tried to insert himself into it by force and strip away it's meaning and artistry by basically playing a black "gangsta" stereotype. That would rub anyone the wrong way.
In terms of "Culture", I would say I'm damn near as "white" as he is, but you will never see me fronting and pretending to be someone I'm not to "fit in" or "look tough". I was born an oreo, and I'll die as one LMAO. That's just how it is sometimes!
(AVAA lol)
“The Last Meal” was Snoops last album on No Limit Records. Snoops last Album on Death Row was his sophomore album “Dogg Father”
is that a book cover behind there?? "promise that you'll sing about me"
Yes, a very good book on Kendrick
Wonderful analysis. I appreciate such an insightful well thought out take.
AVAA, loved your analysis professor.
The best breakdown video. Great job. I’m glad I finally push play. I’m from Crenshaw District, Los Angeles
Just a gentle suggestion: I recommend watching Dr. Robin DiAngelo’s 2019 Lecture…… you are probably already familiar with her work but I think her work and this lecture will give more nuanced insight into SOME of the internal motivation behind the setting up of boundaries and gatekeeping of black culture.
Thanks, will check it out
AVAA. Your contribution to the conversation is so important. Thanks Skye. I appreciate you.
I’m proud to have have crushed a CD player upon hearing Michael Bublé cover Nina Simone’s Feeling Good
you have money to waste, white man privilege, you should be ashamed
So succinct, interesting and well supported ideas!!! I love your takes. I share them with everyone. Great commentary!
AVAA
YES THIS IS WHAT IVE BEEN WAITING FOR
brilliant stuff as always prof another banger AVAA
Well said Professor, you always keep it real. AVAA
We need to start convincing more professors to make youtube channels because I love this kind of content so much
I’ve tried my best to convince fellow professors!
George Orwell is a necessary read or reread if that’s your thing. AVAA. I couldn’t remember your name, but I actually looked forward to this. I stand in solidarity with Kendrick, Kapernick, Umar, and a ton of others who are fighting for liberty! Liberty… we’re still seeking liberty people! Your introduction wasn’t necessary, lol! We appreciate “well spoken,” “articulate” white folk😂!!
-2024
June 19, 2025 Pop Out Day ✊🏿
Edit: I learned there’s a dance called THE SMURF! 😂😂😂😂 See, you are useful!
3:25 "6 times, 9 times" 😂 Freaky Ass Professor. Dope as always AVAA
Sometimes your videos bring a tear to my eye. So well spoken and thought provoking. Long time watcher, first time commenter. Love your work Skye. Can’t wait for the next one. AVAA
i've seen a lot of justin hunt going back to all the clips he made for hiphopdx, and hearing someone else say "punch yourself in the face" made me lol avaa
As a Latina, I’m also not a part of the culture, but I’ve been appreciating it so much. Kendrick expanded my perspective on hip hop as an art form and a movement in a way that just hadn’t happened before.
@michellecgb I appreciate your acknowledgement as a guest in your participation
Omg, I gotta purchase that book! On the strength of confirmations alone. Our community guilts you with, “you only have one mother/ father” I’m venting, my apologies 😔🤣
No apologies! This is very true
Say what now 🤨
@@iluvdissheetparents without boundaries
Pete Walker is the GOAT. I owe my newly found freedom to that book.
AVAA
This is better than my graduate classes!
AAVA. I could not stop watching this video. Back to the essay I was supposed start 39min ago.
AVAA! Your perspective is appreciated.
.
AVAA my little black girl who loves Greek history LIVED for the Hector and Achilles metaphor!!!! So apt, so poignant and so MF true!!! Sending love from Italy, Prof. Please do a breakdown on King Kunta after this, because that flew over so many people's heads. Love from a black lady Italy.
Gonna rec that book for my neurodiverse adults and teens! Edit: the one about emotionally immature parents
Recovering from Emotionally Immature Parents
7:59 He’s def the west coast king after the legends passed the torch
I’m so impressed by your discussion! You obviously study the culture. Much appreciated!👏🏾AVAA
AAVA but I've been thinking about something you said in the original Not Like Us video (I didn't comment at the time because I saw the video some 5 days or more after it's release) you mentioned colonization and brought up a scene from Monty Python and the Life of Brian, making the point that "yes, Drake did colonise the rappers he collaborated with but they also benefitted from it. While I do agree with the sentiment about Drake and the artists he colonised/collaborated with benefitting from said collaboration/colonisation, I do think there was something harmful about the way you presented your argument because at least to me, it made it seem as if you were downplaying the evils of colonisation as a whole (this is just my perspective of how the argument was presented, I'm not necessarily saying you meant any harm). And while I could make every argument Shashi Tharoor made in his speech at Oxford in the exact same order as him, I would rather just recommend that you watch the recording of it on the Oxford Union TH-cam channel, he's far more eloquent and funny than I am. But to gravely oversimplify his point, a lot of countries were able to make the same developments "brought" by colonisers without having to be colonised to do so. Speaking from just the Indian perspective (since I am an Indian), all "developments" the British brought to our shores were for the benefit of the British. I shall stop plagarising Tharoor's speech now and simply enjoy the remaining 30 minutes of what I am sure is another great video.
That’s a good connection. Drake may have put people on but it is basically a meme now about how Drake treats artists signed to his label. It’s why The Weeknd did so much to avoid signing with him (including writing a bulk of the take care album).
Wow wow wow i came here for one thing and you touched on a whole different topic my family is currently in the eye of the storm of. Thank you.
The only way to to understanding, unity & peace is thru respectful communication. Love to hear your point of view 👍🏽👍🏽
That what you just read from the book. Life changing experience
i wish i could like this commentary multiple times. and i was thinking about how the phrase "woke" was co-opted for years now. Dense, in-depth, and showing what the heart of commentary should be! Not vulturing for clicks but bringing insights it's clear only you could provide. Thanks for this prof
Excellent video - sharing this with my family and friends.
Fun fact - the women dancing to Not Like Us were led by Storm DeBarge, daughter of El DeBarge (of the famous family music group DeBarge).
Didn’t know that, very cool. Thanks for sharing the video.
I went to the Pop Out. There were definitely people singing to Not Like Us just because they hate Drake. Yes, there was a lot of Hip Hop love at the Kia Forum that night, but it's disingenuous to say there was no Drake hate there.
In fact, I suspect a lot of Drake hate mobilized people to attend. Before the concert even started, I took video of a guy thanking Kendrick and saying that Drake wasn't going to emerge from "this" "clean". There was definitely Drake hate motivating (what I suspect to be) a lot of attendees.
AVAA man, found you couple of days ago, amazing videos so engaging and interesting
AVAA: Kendrick’s song exposes the complexity of culture. On the surface it is exactly a 21st century “I’m black and I’m Proud” who’s time has come~but the nature of his symbolic target, it’s also about specifically, American Blackness. As gen X, it’s so interesting bc 30 yrs ago if someone would’ve told me that it would be a 21st century rap/hip hop artist that would bring this necessary energy, I would’ve laughed a bit, or a lot.
This song exposes the complexity of black American culture and American culture at large. He authorized the use of the hook for the DNCC, after all. I’m still possible his vision of his song has evolved even for him bc there is some bridgework occurring with this little clever ditty. I’ve heard artists speak about this phenomenon, they had one meaning when they wrote it but marveled at the meaning songs held with individual or collective fanbases.
It’s interesting that a song that on its surface would seem divisive holds a subversive collective solidarity about “like us” American to many folks who have felt on the fringes or at the margins of dominant culture since, well, forever~but also the folks who were born seemingly at the tip of the spear in their ever-expanding awareness. Seemingly out of step with all sorts of intra/inter-group dominant thought…much like the songs author, Kendrick Lamar. His story always hit me that internally he always felt different even in the subculture in which he held membership.
Anyway~you’re future man. Living in the space where dominant culture hasn’t caught up with yet. I’ve lived in this space my entire life as well. So, I recognize my kind. You’re holding space for tomorrow’s people~where possibly our art can be one day celebrated for what it is…American genius. And we can all share it as such.
The song is genius and this song is special.
PS I’m a clinical social worker and I’m so glad you brought in the reality of complex PTSD. What I’ve seen is we’ve all suffered from our history~the progeny of the oppressor group runs from the trauma of this association ~those whom hold themselves consciously in high egalitarian standards, yet struggle with denied anti-black bias due to the avoidance..inadvertently visiting aggressions on to the progeny of once enslaved then segregated people. We’re all living history, and those of us at the tip of the spear (with respect to awareness and insight which our culture couldn’t have possibly generated, much less nurtured) , in my opinion, hold the space for, and through our individual actions and gifts help to bring the healing one step at a time.
I LOVE your channel!!
I really fw that poster behind him. I been meaning to say that for a while