Hip-hop superstar Kendrick Lamar has surprised fans by releasing a brand-new track on his Instagram page, allegedly titled “Watch the Party Die.” The five-minute song marks his first release since his chart-topping hit “Not Like Us,” and has quickly sparked conversation across social media and music platforms.
Key References and Lyrical Jabs
On “Watch the Party Die,” Lamar delivers a thought-provoking set of bars, making reference to several notable figures, including Christian rapper Lecrae, renowned producer Terrace Martin, and what many speculate is a direct shot at DJ Akademiks. In one standout line, Lamar takes aim at media personalities, rapping:
“The radio personality pushing propaganda for salary / Let me know when they turn up as a casualty.”
The track’s intensity doesn’t stop there. Lamar seemingly reignites his long-standing tension with Drake, hinting that their beef might not be fully squashed. He raps:
“Just walked that man down, that’ll do everyone a solid / It’s love but tough love, sometimes you gotta result in violence.”
Further fueling the speculation is the song’s cover art—a pair of beat-up sneakers—believed to be a subtle dig at Drake’s “Push Ups” single cover, which previously mocked Lamar’s shoe size. The symbolism seems deliberate and has fans buzzing about what’s next between the two rap titans.
Success of “Not Like Us” and Lamar’s Return
“Watch the Party Die” comes as Kendrick Lamar’s first musical release since “Not Like Us,” his smash hit that dominated the airwaves earlier this year. The diss track, which was part of his high-profile back-and-forth with Drake, debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped multiple charts, including Hot Rap Songs and Streaming Songs. It became one of Lamar’s biggest hits to date and solidified his place at the top of the rap game.
With “Watch the Party Die,” Lamar returns to remind everyone why he’s a force to be reckoned with, blending intricate lyricism with a fierce delivery that leaves listeners wanting more.
Set to Perform at Super Bowl LIX
Lamar’s return to music also coincides with exciting news: he has been announced as the headliner for the 2025 Apple Music Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show. This will be Lamar’s second time gracing the Super Bowl stage, following his electrifying performance as part of Dr. Dre’s all-star lineup in 2022, which also featured Mary J. Blige, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, and 50 Cent.
Speaking about his upcoming performance, Lamar said,
“Rap music is still the most impactful genre to date. And I’ll be there to remind the world why. They got the right one.”
With new music and one of the world’s biggest stages in his future, Kendrick Lamar is set to keep the momentum going strong. Fans are eagerly awaiting to see how “Watch the Party Die” will perform on the charts and what’s next in the Lamar-Drake saga.
Kendrick Lamar’s surprise release of “Watch the Party Die” has sent shockwaves through the music world. Between the lyrical jabs, potential Drake references, and the anticipation of his Super Bowl LIX performance, Lamar continues to prove why he’s one of the most captivating artists of our time. For fans hungry for new Kendrick Lamar songs, this drop is just the beginning of what looks like an exciting new chapter.