Ice-T and the late Isaac Hayes’ estate have reacted to the recognition they got in Kendrick Lamar’s latest music video for “Squabble Up.”
Dropped on Monday (November 25), the video for the GNX track celebrates different elements of California culture from the Bay Area to Los Angeles, as well as paying tribute to several famous album covers. Included in the list is a homage to Ice’s album Power from 1988 (falling under the theme of “California culture”), along with a reference to Hayes’ Black Moses album released in 1971.
In recognition of Hayes, K. Dot included a man in the video dressed in a hooded robe resembling the one worn by the iconic singer on the cover, and striking the same pose. Similarly, for Ice, a woman in a thong swimsuit was featured holding a rifle similar to Ice’s former girlfriend Darlene Ortiz on the cover of Power.
Ice-T posted on X showing respect to Kendrick Lamar by writing “Respect! @kendricklamar” with a crown emoji.
Killer Mike responded to him, saying: “He absolutely nailed it!” Acknowledging one of the best Artists, Albums, and Covers ever with a cool nod! [salute emojis]
The estate of Isaac stated that Isaac Hayes, known as Black Moses, serves as a strong representation of freedom, guidance, and cultural dignity. Thanks, @kendricklamar, for paying tribute to Isaac and his legacy, highlighting the enduring strength of Black culture.”
Chart Data anticipates that the song, which is a popular choice among Kendrick Lamar fans and is from his unexpected release GNX, will enter the next Billboard Hot 100 singles chart at the top spot.
There are numerous GNX tracks, not just “squabble up,” that have received attention. The first track of the album, “wacced out murals,” received a reaction from none other than Snoop Dogg.
In the song, which references the vandalized Kendrick mural in Compton by a Drake fan, the Pulitzer Prize winner discusses Snoop Dogg’s backing of the 6 God.
He rapped about hoping the edibles were in “Taylor Made” that Snoop posted, but he let go of his disbelief and moved on.
“Taylor Made” is a nod to Drake’s polarizing diss track “Taylor Made Freestyle,” which included AI-imitated voices from Snoop Dogg and 2Pac, artists Kendrick appreciates.
Following the song’s debut, Tha Doggfather uploaded a video showing his slightly confused response, saying: “What did they do?” At what time? In what manner? Do you have certainty? [Sigh] Hope you all have a pleasant evening. “Why is everyone constantly calling and texting me?” [Laughs]
He subsequently supported the song by sharing it on his Instagram Stories and commenting, “90s Hip Hop Forever,” before it was removed following a legal warning from 2Pac’s estate.
On Friday (November 22), Uncle Snoop replied to Kendrick, commending the album and acknowledging (or possibly teasing) that indeed, it was the edibles that made him praise Drizzy.
Kendrick has addressed the criticism regarding his Super Bowl halftime show, especially the accusation that he prevented Lil Wayne from headlining in New Orleans.
