DeMar DeRozan shares his thoughts on starring in Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” music video amid the ongoing feud with Drake.
After joining the Sacramento Kings, DeMar DeRozan appeared in Kendrick Lamar’s latest music video, “Not Like Us.” Though Lamar and Drake are famous rivals, they appeared together. Former Toronto Raptors standout DeRozan has a long history with Drake, but his friendship with Lamar is deeper.
DeRozan told Fox40’s Sean Cunningham why he joined Lamar’s initiative. “Love Drake, always can play him in Sacramento’s Golden 1 Centre,” he remarked. “Kendrick’s my family friend. Damn close family for a while. We’re from the same city and neighbourhood. Always there. Although not usually publicised, that’s family.”
“Love Drake, can play him at Golden 1 Centre in Sacramento. Kendrick’s my family friend. Damn close family for a while. We’re from the same city and neighbourhood,” DeMar DeRozan told Fox40’s Sean Cunningham.
In the “Not Like Us” video, DeRozan and Lamar, both from Compton, California, show their closeness. Over time, their shared roots and career support have solidified their connection. DeRozan appears in the video saying, “I’m glad DeRoz came home, y’all didn’t deserve him neither.”
DeRozan and Lamar’s relationship goes beyond the song video. The NBA player sang “Not Like Us” live with Lamar and Russell Westbrook at Lamar’s Juneteenth concert. This public demonstration of friendship strengthens DeRozan and Lamar’s bond.
DeRozan told NBC Sports Chicago’s K.C. Johnson in 2021, “I knew Kendrick growing up. The city is small. You get inspiration from predecessors. Newcomers are always supported. Sitting back and seeing at the successful ones from that city is a crazy bond. Kendrick and I get along well.”
Despite his ties to Drake, DeRozan is devoted to Lamar. Both attended high schools three miles away and have remained close throughout their careers. DeRozan connects with Lamar’s songs about Compton’s difficulties and successes.
NBA player DeRozan was easy to include in the “Not Like Us” video. His involvement in the video shows his longtime bond with Lamar, which precedes Drake. Since its premiere, the Drake-themed video has been highly debated.
As “Not Like Us” played, the Kings introduced DeRozan to the home crowd at Golden 1 Centre, emphasising his relationship with Lamar. The introduction hailed DeRozan’s new journey with the Kings and his close friendship with Lamar.
DeRozan’s video and statements on Drake and Lamar illuminate the intricacies of personal and professional relationships. He loves Drake but bonds with Lamar on similar experiences and a profound grasp of their Compton heritage.
As DeRozan continues his NBA career with the Kings, his public support for Lamar shows the community’s strong bonds. Their street-forged friendship in Compton shows how mutual respect and commitment can overcome entertainment business rivalries and feuds.
