By Rose Miami 
HangupsMusic.com – In a bold declaration that has sent ripples through the hip-hop community, rapper DaBaby has asserted his belief that he surpasses the perceived "Big 3" of contemporary rap: Drake, Kendrick Lamar, and J. Cole. The Charlotte, North Carolina native shared his candid assessment during an interview with Apple Music, featured in a segment premiered on YouTube on April 24th. DaBaby’s pronouncement was not a subtle hint, but a direct and emphatic claim to being among the genre’s absolute best, positioning himself above artists widely regarded as titans of the modern rap landscape.
"A thousand percent. A thousand percent," DaBaby stated with unwavering conviction, addressing his status within the rap hierarchy. "Like, you can go back to when I first started… I always say like – and I know a lot of people say they’re the best – but, like, I’m the best muthaf**kin’ rapper. Like, I’ve been saying it, and I know you know I often say it when I do my freestyles or whatever." He elaborated, referencing a recurring phrase in his performances and acknowledging its familiarity among his fanbase. "This is a phrase of mine, and a lot of people are familiar with me saying it, but I definitely do mean it."
The rapper further clarified the intensity of his conviction, distinguishing it from mere bravado. "And you know, it ain’t no of course I feel like everybody should feel like they’re the best, but that’s not – I’m not talking like that – when I say that. Like, I’m better than these ni**as. Like, I really mean that." This statement suggests a deep-seated confidence in his lyrical prowess and overall rap capabilities, a belief he feels is substantiated by his work and performance.
DaBaby’s rationale extends beyond simple assertion, touching upon his perceived versatility and innate talent. "I feel like I have the ability to, you know, go anywhere, you know what I mean, musically. Like I can literally do it. Even if we strip everything else away and just go back to being in front of a microphone and putting music on, like I can I can get in there with the best of them," he explained, emphasizing his foundational skill as an MC. This implies a belief that, stripped of production and persona, his core rapping ability stands on par with, or even exceeds, that of his contemporaries.
Interestingly, despite his strong claims of superiority, DaBaby expressed a desire for collaboration with the very artists he’s positioned himself against. He sees potential collaborations with Drake, Kendrick Lamar, and J. Cole not as a challenge to their status, but as an opportunity to publicly demonstrate his lyrical acumen and prove his assertions. "And it ain’t no, you know, it’s nothing to be frowned upon or whatever," DaBaby mused. "I would love to work with these guys. Like it take me saying that type of s**t and then putting it on display with the music and you know putting it out for those doors to open up for these you know for me to end up in the rooms with these guys and on the records with these guys." This perspective frames his bold statement as a catalyst for creative engagement, a way to force a confrontation of skills in the most tangible way possible: through shared musical output.
The interview and DaBaby’s pronouncements come at a significant moment in his career. He is currently celebrating the release of his latest project, "Be More Grateful," and is gearing up to headline his own "Be More Grateful Festival" on June 13th in his home state of North Carolina. The festival boasts an impressive lineup, featuring established artists such as 50 Cent, Boosie BadAzz, Trick Daddy, Waka Flocka Flame, Trina, and Moneybagg Yo, alongside rising talent like BigXThaPlug. This event further solidifies DaBaby’s presence and influence within the music industry, providing a platform for him and other artists to showcase their talents.
The concept of a "Big 3" in hip-hop has long been a subject of fervent debate among fans and critics, with Drake, Kendrick Lamar, and J. Cole frequently cited as the dominant figures of the current era due to their consistent critical acclaim, commercial success, and significant cultural impact. DaBaby’s direct challenge to this established hierarchy is a testament to his ambition and self-belief. Whether his claims will be validated by the public or through future musical exchanges remains to be seen, but his outspokenness has undoubtedly ignited a new wave of discussion about lyrical supremacy and the ever-evolving landscape of hip-hop.
The interview segment where DaBaby made these assertions can be found within the broader Apple Music interview, timestamped at the 10-minute mark. The visual accompanying the discussion, featuring DaBaby’s direct address, has further amplified the reach of his message, allowing fans to witness his confident delivery firsthand. The rapper’s willingness to engage in such high-stakes comparisons underscores a drive to be recognized not just for his popular hits, but for his fundamental lyrical capabilities, aiming to cement his legacy among the all-time greats.