Kendrick Lamar’s latest track, “Not Like Us,” has stirred up quite a buzz, especially among wrestling fans. The Compton rapper name-dropped WWE legend Shawn Michaels in a line that has caught the attention of many. Lamar raps, “Sweet Chin Music, and I won’t pass the aux,” a reference to Michaels’ iconic finishing move. This line is part of Lamar’s ongoing lyrical feud with fellow rapper Drake, likening his verbal jabs to Michaels’ famous in-ring maneuver.
Shawn Michaels, known as “The Heartbreak Kid,” has been following the feud closely. The WWE Hall of Famer took to social media to express his thoughts, even extending an invitation to both rappers to settle their differences in the WWE NXT ring. Michaels humorously offered to mediate if they weren’t up for a physical confrontation, adding a touch of wrestling flair to the ongoing rap battle.
The feud between Drake and Kendrick Lamar has been escalating, with each artist delivering increasingly personal diss tracks. Lamar’s mention of “Sweet Chin Music” not only serves as a metaphor for his lyrical attacks but also nods to the infamous Montreal Screwjob, a controversial wrestling event involving Michaels and Canadian wrestler Bret “The Hitman” Hart.
Michaels’ reaction to the shout-out was one of amusement and pride. He shared that he always gets a kick out of seeing his name and signature moves referenced in popular culture. During a media call to promote WWE NXT Heatwave 2024, Michaels reflected on how such moments make him feel good about his career and its impact on a generation of fans. He mentioned that seeing athletes and celebrities mimic his moves or mention him in their work is a testament to the lasting influence of his wrestling persona.
The back-and-forth between Drake and Kendrick Lamar has permeated various facets of pop culture, from sports broadcasts to social media. Fans have even created humorous content imagining how a wrestling match between the two rappers might play out. One Instagram user, @shady00018_, posted a video depicting a no-holds-barred wrestling match between Lamar and Drake, with J. Cole making a cameo appearance.
The feud has reached a point where it feels like everyone is weighing in, from actors to athletes. It’s reminiscent of the kind of celebrity clashes that MTV’s “Celebrity Deathmatch” would have thrived on. The playful yet intense rivalry has captivated audiences, making it a hot topic in both the music and wrestling worlds.
Michaels’ engagement with the feud adds an extra layer of excitement for fans. His willingness to bring the rappers into the WWE NXT ring, even if just in jest, highlights the crossover appeal of wrestling and hip-hop. It’s a nod to the larger-than-life personas that both industries cultivate and the entertainment value they provide.
As the feud continues to unfold, it’s clear that Kendrick Lamar’s reference to Shawn Michaels has struck a chord. The line in “Not Like Us” serves as a bridge between two seemingly disparate worlds, uniting fans of both rap and wrestling. Michaels’ positive reaction and his reflections on his career’s impact underscore the significance of such cultural crossovers.
In the end, whether or not Drake and Kendrick Lamar ever take their feud to the wrestling ring, the mention of “Sweet Chin Music” has already left its mark. It’s a reminder of the enduring legacy of Shawn Michaels and the way his career continues to resonate with new generations of fans. For Michaels, seeing his influence in mainstream culture is a gratifying experience, one that validates the hard work and dedication he put into his wrestling career.
As the rap battle rages on, fans can only speculate on what the next move will be. But one thing is certain: Shawn Michaels’ “Sweet Chin Music” will forever be a part of pop culture, thanks to moments like these.
Source: Billboard, Fightful.com
