SZA, a frequent collaborator of Lamar, and the two are embarking on a tour together. She also happens to be Drake’s former flame. Fans were surprised to discover that the songstress and Drake had a brief fling over ten years ago, as revealed in Drake’s 2020 track “Mr. Right Now.” SZA confirmed the relationship, shedding light on the fact that she was 18 at the time while he was around 23. This detail, perhaps ironically, holds significance given the controversies surrounding Drake. Interestingly, the duo would later team up on Drake’s 2023 album “Slime You Out.”
Adding fuel to the fire, Lamar made a bold move by inviting another one of Drake’s rumored exes, Serena Williams, onto the stage. Both hailing from Compton, California, Drake and Serena were reportedly romantically linked back in 2015. Drake recently acknowledged their past relationship, attributing it as the inspiration behind his 2016 hit “Too Good.”
Serena Williams electrified the crowd at the Apple Music Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show on February 9, 2025, in New Orleans. However, it seems that the relationship between Drake and Serena has soured. Drake publicly called out Serena’s husband, Alexis Ohanian, in his 2022 song “Middle of the Ocean,” referring to him as a “groupie.” In response, Ohanian took to social media, brushing off the insult and emphasizing his relentless pursuit of excellence in all aspects of his life.
In a show of support, Kendrick defended Serena in his song “Not Like Us,” drawing attention to their shared roots in the Los Angeles area. Referencing specific locations, he warned against speaking ill of the esteemed athlete.
Rumors abound, questioning whether Drake will take legal action against Kendrick. During the Super Bowl, Lamar alluded to Drake’s lawsuit against Universal Music Group regarding the promotion of “Not Like Us,” hinting at potential legal battles. Interestingly, while Lamar is at the center of the controversy, he is not directly involved in the lawsuit.
Drake has filed a federal lawsuit against Universal Music Group, accusing the company of “corporate greed” in their handling of the situation. Drake’s legal team emphasized that the lawsuit is not aimed at Kendrick Lamar but rather exposes the negative impact of prioritizing profits over artists’ well-being. Shedding light on the music industry’s inner workings, the lawsuit aims to hold accountable those who prioritize corporate gain over artistic integrity.
Contributing to this intense saga is the USA TODAY Entertainment staff. For the latest developments on this unfolding drama, stay tuned as the Super Bowl aftermath continues to unravel.