Drake’s latest music video for his single “NOKIA,” released on March 31, has sparked controversy, with fans and critics accusing the rapper of borrowing heavily from Kendrick Lamar’s visual and thematic style. Directed by Theo Skudra and shot in IMAX, the black-and-white video features a mix of elaborate dance sequences, retro aesthetics, and symbolic imagery that many believe mirror elements of Lamar’s acclaimed work, including his “Not Like Us” video and Super Bowl halftime performance.
The four-minute video showcases Drake hosting parties, rollerblading through neon-lit scenes, and prominently using a retro flip phone. However, viewers quickly pointed out similarities to Lamar’s visuals. One scene shows Drake surrounded by dancers in choreographed formations, which some claim resembles Lamar’s Super Bowl performance. Another moment features an owl—Drake’s OVO brand symbol—flying freely at the video’s conclusion, a possible counter to Lamar’s use of a caged bird in “Not Like Us.”
Social media erupted with comparisons shortly after the video’s release. Some fans accused Drake of lacking originality, with one user commenting, “We’re just going to pretend he’s not COPYING Kendrick’s whole aesthetic?” Others interpreted the video as a deliberate parody or even trolling of Lamar. DJ Akademiks speculated during a livestream that Drake was taking subtle jabs at his rival: “These two are going to be tied together like Siamese twins… neither can seem to get over the other.”
Despite the backlash, “NOKIA” has been well-received by Drake’s core fanbase and continues to climb the charts, currently sitting at No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100. The video has also been praised for its high production value and nostalgic nods to 1990s culture, including references to the classic Nokia Snake game.
Drake has not issued an official statement addressing the accusations, leaving room for debate about whether the similarities are intentional or coincidental. Kendrick Lamar has also remained silent on the matter.
The controversy highlights the ongoing rivalry between the two rappers, which has intensified since Lamar’s diss track “Not Like Us” dominated charts last year. While some view Drake’s video as an homage or playful competition, others see it as evidence of creative borrowing that could tarnish his reputation as an innovator in hip-hop.
As discussions continue online, “NOKIA” remains a commercial success and a cultural talking point, further fueling speculation about how this rivalry will influence both artists’ future projects.
