Fans are thrilled as Young Thug praises Drake – but his jab at Kendrick Lamar in a leaked phone call has sent social media into a frenzy!
The hip-hop world is buzzing after a newly leaked jail call featuring Young Thug has emerged online, sending shockwaves through fans and artists alike. In the explosive audio, the Atlanta rapper didn’t hold back, criticizing Kendrick Lamar for allegedly declining a feature on his 2023 album Business Is Business while simultaneously praising Drake for his collaboration. The conversation has reignited debates about collaboration culture, artist rivalries, and the power dynamics of the music industry.
A Shocking Revelation
The leaked recording reveals a candid Young Thug, 34, expressing frustration over what he perceives as Kendrick Lamar’s selective approach to features. According to Thug, Lamar frequently turns down opportunities to collaborate with established artists, choosing instead to work selectively with a smaller circle, including his cousin Baby Keem. Thug questions this approach, asking pointedly, “Why wouldn’t you wanna do a feature for a superstar?”
In the call, Thug contrasts Lamar’s reluctance with the eagerness of other top artists like Lil Durk and Lil Baby, emphasizing that collaborations can drive mutual success, including chart-topping hits. The message is clear: Thug feels that Kendrick is missing out on opportunities to further cement his legacy in hip-hop.

Praise for Drake
The conversation takes a sharp turn as Young Thug shifts focus to Drake, highlighting the Toronto superstar’s contributions to Business Is Business. Despite Thug’s legal challenges, Drake reportedly contributed two powerful verses to the album, demonstrating professionalism and loyalty. Thug praises Drake’s impact on the careers of countless artists, noting, “Buddy f*** with everybody. You know how many lives Drake changed?”
This segment of the call has fueled discussion about the differing approaches of Kendrick Lamar and Drake to collaboration and mentorship. While Lamar is perceived as selective and exclusive, Drake is celebrated for being approachable and supportive, helping shape the next generation of talent.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Frenzy
The leaked jail call quickly went viral on social media, with fans taking sides in the debate. Some agree with Thug, believing that Kendrick Lamar should be more open to collaborations, especially with legendary artists like Thug. Others argue that Kendrick’s selective strategy maintains his artistic integrity and mystique.
Meanwhile, Drake supporters have flooded comment sections praising his willingness to help fellow artists. The conversation has reignited debates about loyalty, career strategy, and influence in modern hip-hop. Memes, reaction videos, and hot takes continue to dominate platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, further fueling the frenzy.
Industry Implications
Beyond fan reactions, the leaked call raises questions about the music industry’s collaborative landscape. Features are a major driver of streaming numbers, chart success, and cross-audience engagement. By criticizing Kendrick Lamar publicly, Thug has shone a spotlight on the competitive nature of these collaborations and the expectations placed on top-tier artists.
This situation also highlights the impact of leaked recordings in shaping public perception. While some fans appreciate the candid insights into an artist’s thoughts, others criticize the ethics of releasing private conversations. Regardless, the discussion underscores the tension between privacy, artistic choices, and the relentless scrutiny that hip-hop stars face.
What This Means for Kendrick Lamar and Drake
For Kendrick Lamar, the leak may spark renewed speculation about his future collaborations and the strategic choices he makes in his career. Fans may wonder if Lamar will respond publicly, either to defend his approach or to issue clarification.
Drake, on the other hand, benefits from Thug’s praise, reinforcing his image as a mentor and collaborator who uplifts other artists. The contrast between Lamar and Drake, as framed by Young Thug, provides a compelling narrative about influence, generosity, and the business of music.
The Broader Conversation About Hip-Hop Culture
The leaked call goes beyond a simple dispute between artists. It touches on deeper issues in hip-hop culture, including:
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Collaboration vs. exclusivity – Should top artists open doors for everyone or maintain selective partnerships to preserve brand and artistic integrity?
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Mentorship and influence – How does working with established stars impact younger or emerging artists?
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The role of controversy – How much does public criticism fuel engagement, streams, and social media virality?
These questions are central to understanding the dynamics of modern hip-hop. Young Thug’s candid remarks have opened the door for fans, artists, and industry insiders to debate what it truly means to succeed, support others, and maintain authenticity in a competitive environment.
What’s Next?
With no public response from Kendrick Lamar, Drake, or Young Thug himself, the story is far from over. Fans are eagerly awaiting potential statements, social media posts, or even new music that might provide further insight. The leaked call serves as a powerful reminder of how the private opinions of artists can become a global conversation overnight.

For now, the hip-hop community continues to dissect the implications of Young Thug’s words. Will this tension lead to future collaborations, or will it deepen the divide between artists? Only time will tell.
Final Thoughts
The leaked jail call is more than a gossip headline—it’s a glimpse into the complex relationships and high-stakes decisions that shape the careers of today’s biggest hip-hop stars. Young Thug’s candid critique of Kendrick Lamar, coupled with praise for Drake, has created a perfect storm for discussion, debate, and virality.
As this story unfolds, it highlights a timeless truth in music: in the world of hip-hop, influence, collaboration, and reputation are everything. Fans and insiders alike will be watching closely to see how each artist navigates this public moment, and the conversation is far from over.


