Kendrick Lamar has unexpectedly released a new song on his Instagram, reportedly titled “Watch the Party Die.”
The five-minute track features references to Christian rapper Lecrae, musician Terrace Martin, and seemingly includes a nod to DJ Akademiks. In one part, he critiques the radio personality, saying, “The radio personality pushing propaganda for salary / Let me know when they turn up as a casualty.”
Additionally, Lamar appears to hint at a lingering feud with Drake, rapping, “Just walked that man down, that’ll do everyone a solid / It’s love but tough love, sometimes you gotta result in violence.” The song’s cover art, which depicts a pair of worn-out sneakers, might be a reference to Drake’s single cover for “Push Ups,” which previously mocked Lamar’s shoe size.
This new release is Lamar’s first since his hit single “Not Like Us,” which emerged as a major success amidst his ongoing rivalry with Drake earlier this year. “Not Like Us” became one of Lamar’s standout tracks, debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in May. Since its release, the diss track has topped various charts, including Hot Rap Songs, Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs, and Streaming Songs, while also reaching No. 2 on Billboard’s Song of the Summer chart.
Lamar’s latest song arrives shortly after it was announced that he will perform at the 2025 Apple Music Super Bowl LIX Halftime show. This will mark his second appearance during the halftime event, following his feature in Dr. Dre’s star-studded show in 2022 alongside Mary J. Blige, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, and 50 Cent.
“Rap music is still the most impactful genre to date,” Lamar stated regarding the Halftime show. “And I’ll be there to remind the world why. They got the right one.”