Yasiin Bey, formerly known as Mos Def, has once again proven his lyrical prowess by dropping a freestyle over Future, Metro Boomin, and Kendrick Lamar’s “Like That.” In a spontaneous moment captured on Instagram Live, the Brooklyn rap legend delved into the “Big Three” debate referenced in Kendrick’s original track, reigniting tensions with Drake and briefly clashing with J. Cole.
Bey’s choice to freestyle over this particular beat is significant, given his recent criticism of Drake’s music. Earlier this year, he labeled Drake as “pop” and suggested that his songs were more suitable for a shopping trip soundtrack. This critique sparked a response from Drake, who posted a video clip of Method Man discussing the cultural significance of Hip Hop.
These recent events highlight the ongoing discussions within the Hip Hop community regarding authenticity, commercial success, and artistic integrity. Bey’s decision to address these topics through his freestyle not only showcases his skill as a lyricist but also underscores his commitment to pushing the boundaries of the genre.
In a landscape where mainstream success often comes at the expense of artistic credibility, Yasiin Bey stands out as an artist unafraid to speak his mind and challenge the status quo. His freestyle over “Like That” serves as a reminder of the power of words and the impact that a well-crafted verse can have in sparking important conversations within the culture.
As we continue to navigate the ever-evolving world of Hip Hop, it is artists like Yasiin Bey who remind us of the importance of staying true to oneself and using music as a tool for self-expression and social commentary. His return with this freestyle is not just a moment of musical brilliance but a call to action for artists to use their platform to speak truth to power and inspire change.
