Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott Takes Stage with Kendrick Lamar’s ‘Not Like Us’
Baltimore was electrified on primary night as Mayor Brandon Scott, fresh from his victory in the Democratic primary, approached the podium with Kendrick Lamar’s latest diss track, "Not Like Us," reverberating through the Rye Street Market Building.
This song, aimed at fellow rapper Drake, has been a sensation online, adding a layer of intensity and excitement to Scott’s victory celebration.
As reported by Complex, Scott made his way to the stage with "Not Like Us" blaring, setting an audacious and defiant tone for his speech. The crowd at Baltimore Peninsula was already buzzing, and the powerful anthem only amplified their energy. The choice of song was a bold nod to overcoming adversity and silencing critics, a sentiment echoed in Scott's subsequent address.
“There might be some votes left to be counted, but I think it’s safe to say that we’re destined for a second term,” Scott declared, his voice filled with determination. “And Baltimore, tonight you said very clearly that your democracy is not for sale, no matter how rich they are. You have confirmed once again that the naysayers who underestimate our city will never, ever understand what truly makes Baltimore great.”
Scott’s speech was a fiery rebuttal to those who doubted his city, including a Trump-supporting Republican super PAC that poured hundreds of thousands of dollars into misleading ads. Despite these challenges, Scott emerged victorious, a testament to Baltimore’s resilience and unity.
The night’s soundtrack, Kendrick Lamar's "Not Like Us," was a fitting choice for a leader who has continually defied expectations. Lamar’s ongoing feud with Drake has been a highlight in the hip-hop world, and his music has become anthems of resistance and triumph. The Biden/Harris campaign previously tapped into this powerful narrative by using Lamar’s song "Euphoria" in a campaign video against Donald Trump, underscoring themes of love, hate, and the fight for justice.
The lyrics were cleverly adapted for the campaign, spotlighting Trump's controversial policies and actions:
“It’s always been about love and hate, now let me say I’m the biggest hater. I hate the way that you walk over women’s rights, the way that you talk about immigrants. I hate the way that you dress, I hate the way that you sneak diss on Truth Social.”
Choosing "Not Like Us" as his victory anthem, Mayor Brandon Scott sent a clear message of defiance against those who underestimate Baltimore. His victory speech, underscored by the fierce beats and biting lyrics of Kendrick Lamar, was a powerful reminder of the city's strength and the unwavering spirit of its people.
