In the past year, Drake has faced significant changes in his public image and personal relationships. Following a highly publicized rap battle with Kendrick Lamar, Drake found himself at the center of online ridicule and lost several key celebrity friendships. This article explores how these dynamics have evolved, focusing on notable figures who have distanced themselves from Drake.

The Evolution of Drake's Relationships Post-Feud

In the vibrant and competitive world of hip-hop, tensions can escalate quickly. In the aftermath of a high-profile verbal showdown between Drake and Kendrick Lamar, the Toronto rapper experienced a series of setbacks. Not only did he face widespread mockery on social media, but also witnessed a shift in loyalty among his once-close friends. The Root delves into the nine-month period following the feud to examine this transformation.

One of the most prominent figures to distance herself from Drake is SZA. Initially, she collaborated with him on tracks like “Slime You Out” and “Rich Baby Daddy” from his 2023 album, “For All the Dogs.” However, after Drake’s diss track “Push Ups,” where he mentioned SZA, she became a staunch supporter of Lamar. SZA was seen attending Lamar’s Pop Out Concert in June 2024 and later performed alongside him at the Super Bowl, solidifying her allegiance.

Another significant relationship affected by the feud is that between Drake and former NBA star DeMar DeRozan. Once close friends, their bond began to strain when Drake engaged in a dispute with DeRozan’s childhood friend, Kendrick Lamar. DeRozan’s presence at Lamar’s concert and his appearance in the music video for “Not Like Us” highlighted this shift. Matters escalated during a Sacramento Kings game against the Raptors in Toronto, where Drake made controversial remarks about DeRozan, further deteriorating their relationship.

Perhaps the most impactful loss for Drake is LeBron James, whose support shifted towards Lamar after the feud. Despite having a tattoo of LeBron on his arm, Drake saw James become one of Lamar’s biggest advocates. James even attended Lamar’s concert, dancing to “Not Like Us.” Drake’s freestyle “Fighting Irish” hinted at this rift, referencing LeBron’s high school mascot.

From a journalistic perspective, this story highlights the volatile nature of celebrity friendships and the far-reaching consequences of public feuds. It serves as a reminder that in the entertainment industry, alliances can be fragile and subject to rapid change. The events surrounding Drake and Kendrick Lamar’s conflict offer valuable insights into the power dynamics within the music and sports worlds, underscoring the importance of maintaining strong interpersonal relationships even in competitive environments.