By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
In the closing weeks of 2011 and the opening weeks of 2012, Drake was in the headlines due to his ongoing feud with Common. The veteran rapper released his single, “Sweet,” which many felt was directed at Drake. Weeks before, Drake released his highly-anticipated album, Take Care. Critics were disappointed with Drake’s new album, as it was more singing than rapping and very emotional. After the poor reception to the album, Common came with “Sweet.”
Perhaps tired of all the criticism, Drake went into a rant during a performance days before Christmas and Common was asked about this. Initially, Common said his song, and comments, were not directed at anyone, but Drake must be soft if he is taking offense. Rick Ross planned to release a mixtape for his fans, after his album was delayed. The first single, “Stay Schemin’,” was to feature Drake and French Montana. On his verse, Drake took aim at Common, who used the track to answer back.
In Orlando, at the 2012 NBA All-Star Game, Drake and Common finally met face-to-face, officially ending their feud. However, many forget Drake had ongoing wars of words with many other artists. Back in the summer of 2011, there were rumors of Pusha T taking shots at the rising rapper. This is something Pusha T denied, but Ludacris made it clear he was taking shots at Drake, and Big Sean, on his “Bada Boom” single. Even after reaching out to rising Atlanta rapper, Future, for “Tony Montana,” he has had choice words for Drake.
During his interview with VIBE, Drake discussed these ongoing beefs. Speaking on Future, Drake agreed with the Atlanta rapper, saying he could not be mad at him, at the end of the day. Drake said he was glad he had the chance to be featured on “Tony Montana,” as it was one of 2011’s biggest singles. When discussing Ludacris, Drake said he feels he released “Bada Boom” to take advantage of their current fame. Drake said Ludacris was trying to use his marketing money to make himself relevant again and he does not engage in things of that nature.
Finally, Drake spoke on Pusha T, saying he made it clear he had nothing but love for The Clipse. Having no idea why Pusha T would diss him, Drake pondered of Pusha T being bored at the time.
