Former NBA star Michael Beasley stirred the pot during a recent episode of the BIG3’s 3s and Ones podcast, making a bold claim that has hip-hop fans buzzing: he believes Kodak Black is a better artist than Kendrick Lamar.
Joined by NBA reporter Chris Haynes and former player Demario “Symba” Driver, Beasley didn’t hold back as he laid out his case — prompting disbelief, laughs, and heated discussion from his co-hosts.
“Man, I think Kodak better than Kendrick,” Beasley declared, immediately sparking controversy.
Beasley’s Case: Versatility and Chart Dominance
Beasley highlighted Kodak Black’s versatility and consistent presence on the charts as a major factor.
“A new cadence every time… been on the charts every year,” he explained, pointing to the rapper’s radio hits and streaming dominance across the country.
According to Beasley, Kodak’s reach and mass listenership make him stand out, arguing that commercial success is a key metric of artistic impact.
“Anywhere you go in the country, you gonna hear Kodak first,” he said.
Kendrick’s Strengths vs. Kodak’s Mass Appeal
While acknowledging Kendrick Lamar’s lyrical mastery, Beasley suggested his skills are primarily limited to wordplay rather than creating hits with broad appeal:
“The only thing Kendrick’s better at is playing with words. He can’t make a better song. He don’t got more hits,” Beasley argued.
Co-host Symba pushed back, likening the discussion to a basketball debate where measurable evidence is required to prove superiority. Beasley countered by pointing to Kodak’s cultural footprint and consistent chart presence, framing the discussion in terms of reach and influence over mainstream audiences.
Controversial Takes on Kendrick’s Music
The conversation also touched on Kendrick’s 2023 diss track “Not Like Us” aimed at Drake. Beasley dismissed it as overrated, claiming its hype comes from fan rivalry rather than enduring musical significance.
“It was a decent West Coast bop, right? You haven’t heard the song since February,” he quipped.
Despite these critiques, his co-hosts highlighted Kendrick’s achievements, including his Super Bowl Halftime performance and lasting influence on hip-hop culture.
Hip-Hop Debate: Commercial Success vs. Critical Acclaim
Beasley’s statements underscore a larger tension in hip-hop between:
- Critical acclaim, as exemplified by Kendrick Lamar’s artistry and innovation.
- Commercial success and cultural reach, as Beasley frames it with Kodak Black.
The discussion reflects how fans weigh artistry differently, balancing lyrical skill, streaming numbers, radio dominance, and cultural impact.
Why Fans Are Talking
Whether you agree with Beasley or not, the episode highlights how criteria for “best rapper” in the streaming era have shifted. Artists are judged not only on lyrical ability but also chart performance, versatility, and mass audience engagement.
For fans, this debate is far from over — it’s a reminder that hip-hop discourse thrives on differing opinions and spirited conversation.
Do you agree with Michael Beasley that Kodak Black tops Kendrick Lamar, or does Kendrick still reign? Share your thoughts below!
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