50 Cent on Drake, Kendrick and Meek Mill: “Defending Yourself Looks Guilty”

During a recent interview with Michael Saparona, 50 Cent, a legendary rapper, shared his thoughts on the current dynamics of hip-hop feuds, referencing well-known figures like Drake and Kendrick Lamar. The hip-hop community has been roiled over the years by the two heavyweights taking subtle shots and outright dissent at each other. Saparona pointed out during the discussion that Drake seemed to have lost his balance in that fight because he over-defended. In contrast, Kendrick's more relaxed and calculated approach seemed to give him the upper hand.

According to Saparona, Drake's efforts to defend his image may have backfired as the Canadian superstar may have tried too hard to refute Kendrick's claims, causing him to lose credibility as a result.

50 Cent, known for his insightful and incisive commentary, agreed that with this assessment he expressed his thoughts on how the current social media-driven climate is increasing the scrutiny of public figures, particularly when they appear on respond to criticism.

“If you say something that's not true and the person wants to defend themselves, it encourages them – the public likes that you're vulnerable,” 50 explained. “Because you care that it's not true, and they attack you.”

He continued by comparing Drake's situation to Meek Mill, who was subjected to public ridicule due to his defensiveness following multiple accusations and memes.

50 Cent brought up the case that Meek Mill was accused of having a romantic relationship with Puff Daddy, a rumor that quickly spread on social media. According to 50, Meek's reaction only made the situation worse.

“When they say Meek is being fruity or cheerful with Puff in the current situation, it's his reaction that makes people want to talk about it more. It’s getting bigger and bigger and it’s becoming something that’s happening out there.”

According to 50, this phenomenon is a result of the public's desire for vulnerability and drama. Audiences are more likely to uncover potential weaknesses when an artist attempts to clarify or deny an accusation.

In the words of the '50s, “It's the way they react to what people say about them publicly.” They feel, “Does this bother you?” When you say something, they start to emphasize this even harder. They want the fight to continue.”

As a veteran rap professional, 50 Cent knows the impact an artist's response to controversy has on their public image. He demonstrated this point using the example of Frenchman Montana, who was often associated with the same social circles but managed to avoid the drama.

“You don’t hear anything about French Montana. And French was often in this circle and the surrounding area. Not a single thing, and Meek’s shit is everywhere.”

The lesson for 50 Cent is clear: When artists become overly defensive, they risk making the situation worse. Staying silent or responding more calmly can help prevent rumors and accusations from getting out of control. In today's fast-paced media environment, knowing when to speak and when to remain silent is critical to maintaining one's public image.

The '50s perspective shows the evolution of modern hip-hop battles beyond music, with public perception playing an equally important role in who wins and who loses a feud. As Drake, Kendrick, and Meek Mill demonstrate, handling allegations appropriately can have a significant impact on an artist's reputation among fans and critics.

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