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Kendrick Lamar performs in Toronto for 1st time since Drake feud
Kendrick Lamar is set to perform in Toronto Thursday night for the first time since his public feud with Drake began more than a year ago.
The American rapper will be at the Rogers Centre for two nights alongside R&B artist SZA for their joint Grand National Instagram post is calling for a so-called "OVO Takeover" near the venue, rallying Drake fans to play his music while donning clothing from his brand October's Very Own. The post said the takeover is a celebration of Drake who "built the sound of the city" and there will be "no hate, no drama — just pure Toronto energy."
But some Torontonians shared a different sentiment regarding the feud between the two rappers.
One man told CBC Radio's Metro Morning that while Drake "put Toronto on the map," he has done "questionable things as of late."
A spokesperson for Drake did not respond to a request for comment.
LISTEN | Commotion host Elamin Abdelmahmoud on the Lamar-Drake beef:
Speaking to Metro Morning ahead of the concert, most fans said they're more excited about the music than the rapper drama, though some admitted Drake was "washed" in his battle with Lamar.
One woman who travelled from Winnipeg for the concert said she appreciates good music no matter where it's from.
Another woman that came from Mexico City for the show said it didn't cross her mind that she's coming to Drake's hometown.
He and Lamar have been involved in a highly publicized feud, which has culminated in a legal battle between the Canadian rapper and the U.S. record label that represents both men.
Drake is suing Universal Music Group for defamation for publishing and promoting Lamar's smash hit Not Like Us.
In legal documents, Drake said the song's lyrics wrongly accuse him of being a pedophile, jeopardizing his safety and damaging his reputation.
None of the allegations have been proven in court.
In court filings, Universal called Drake's suit a baseless "attack on the commercial and creative success of the rap artist who defeated him."
One man told Metro Morning it's not Torontonians' responsibility to defend Drake's actions or behaviour.
Another man said he hopes the feud won't be all that people remember of these two "great artists."
