euphoria

About this song

Kendrick Lamar released "euphoria" as a response to Drake's April 2024 diss tracks, "Push Ups" and "Taylor Made Freestyle," following Kendrick's earlier attack on Drake and J. Cole on "Like That." It was his first solo release since the 2022 album Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers, and it surprised listeners on YouTube on April 30, 2024, at 8:24 a.m. Pacific time, a nod to Kobe Bryant, whose jersey numbers were 8 and 24. The song is built in three parts, with Kendrick growing more hostile and the instrumentation becoming more eerie and aggressive as it goes.

What it's about

The song is a direct attack on Drake, covering his behavior, psychology, life choices, public image, and what Kendrick sees as a disconnect from authentic Black culture. Its title is also believed to reference HBO's teen drama Euphoria, which Drake executive produces and which has been criticized for sexualizing teenage girls.

Fun facts

• Samples “You're My Latest, My Greatest Inspiration by Teddy Pendergrass” and “Wish A Mutha Would by Frayser Boy”.
• Sampled in 13 other songs, like “PLANET by Rich Woan”.
• Covered 5 times, including “euphoria by Spectre (Rapper)”.
• Written by Kendrick Lamar, Cardo Got Wings, Kyuro, Johnny Juliano, M-Tech and Sounwave.
• Produced by Cardo Got Wings, Kyuro, Johnny Juliano, M-Tech and Sounwave.