"Euphoria" is a high-powered diss track by American rap legend Kendrick Lamar, released on April 30, 2024. This song served as a direct and devastating response to Drake's tracks "Push Ups" and "Taylor Made Freestyle." clocking in at over six minutes, Kendrick uses this platform to break down Drake's character, career, and authenticity, solidifying one of the biggest feuds in hip-hop history.

🔥 The Deeper Meaning

The title "Euphoria" has multiple layers. Primarily, it is a jab at the HBO series Euphoria, for which Drake serves as an executive producer. By using this title, Kendrick subtly references long-standing internet rumors regarding Drake's behavior. Additionally, the song's cover art features the dictionary definition of "euphoria" (a state of intense happiness), suggesting that Kendrick finds a certain "joy" or "elation" in finally speaking his truth and dismantling his rival's persona.

At its core, the song is about authenticity versus performance. Kendrick argues that while Drake is a global superstar, he is a "scam artist" who lacks the cultural depth and "street credit" that defines true hip-hop. He touches on themes of race, identity, and fatherhood, contrasting his own life as a dedicated artist and father with Drake’s public image.

🔍 Lyrics Breakdown and Analysis

Kendrick's writing is filled with "double entendres" and hidden meanings. Here are the key sections explained:

(The Phony Persona)

"Everything they say about me is true / I'm a phony" (Reversed Intro)

Analysis: The song opens with a reversed audio clip of Richard Pryor from the 1978 film The Wiz. When played forward, it says "I'm a phony." Kendrick uses this to immediately brand Drake as a fake or an actor—referencing Drake's early career on the TV show Degrassi.

(The Hatred - DMX Tribute)

"I hate the way that you walk, the way that you talk / I hate the way that you dress"

Analysis: In one of the most viral moments of the song, Kendrick interpolates a famous 2012 interview by the late rapper DMX. It is a raw, unfiltered expression of distaste. Kendrick isn't just criticizing Drake's music; he is criticizing his entire existence and how he presents himself to the world.

(The "Big 3" and "Big Me")

"Thinkin' they my real friends, if not, I'm YNW Melly"

Analysis: Kendrick references the "Big 3" (himself, Drake, and J. Cole). He suggests that while the others might be acting friendly on stage, he is ready to go to war alone. The YNW Melly reference is a dark metaphor for someone willing to turn on their "friends" if the loyalty isn't real.

📜 FULL LYRICS: EUPHORIA (CLEAN SELECTION)

(Intro - Reversed) Everything they say about me is true I'm a phony...

(Verse 1) Them super powers gettin' neutralized, I can only watch in silence The famous actor we once knew is lookin' paranoid and spiralin' You're not a rap artist, you a scam artist with the hopes of bein' accepted I'm the biggest hater, I hate the way that you walk, the way that you talk I hate the way that you dress, I hate the way that you sneak diss If I catch flight, it's gon' be direct

(Chorus/Hook) I make music that electrify 'em, you make music that pacify 'em I can double down on that line, but spare you this time That's random acts of kindness Know you a master manipulator and a habitual liar too But don't tell no lie about me and I won't tell truths about you

(Verse 2) I even hate when you say the word "nigga," but that's just me, I guess Some shit just cringeworthy, it ain't even gotta be deep, I guess You're movin' like a degenerate, every time you drop I'm the one to tell you "stop"

Conclusion

"Euphoria" is a masterclass in lyrical warfare. It reaffirmed Kendrick Lamar's position as a superior writer who values the "culture" of hip-hop above commercial success. It wasn't just a song; it was a cultural event that forced fans to look at the differences between being a "pop star" and a "rap artist."