Michael Rubin has confirmed a recent rumor regarding his Fourth of July party. During an appearance on The Breakfast Club, he revealed that he did instruct the DJ not to play Kendrick Lamar’s song “Not Like Us” while Drake was in attendance.
Rubin told the hosts that due to his long-standing friendship with Drake, he would never invite him to an event where that song could potentially make him uncomfortable. “It was true,” Rubin stated. “I just didn’t think it was appropriate, so I said, ‘Hey, let’s not play anyone’s music that’s feuding with anyone here.’ That was my decision. I felt it wasn’t the right thing to do.”
Now, in response to a viral photo of Drake appearing downcast at the party, Rubin clarified that Drake was, in fact, enjoying himself. “Look, Drake is an iconic artist that we all have tremendous respect for. What I said to Drake and I really believe this, this is a great test for him. You can’t get to where he’s got to and not have people coming for you.”
He added, “I sleep with one eye open. I know right now we have three businesses. People are coming for me in every business every day, and that’s part of with success comes more competition, more hatred, and you know the best people show why they’re the best, and if you’re not the best, you crack and you fall apart. So I think this is a great test for him. I think he’s going to come out with lots of incredible music.”
Despite facing lyrical challenges from Kendrick Lamar’s diss track, Drake has continued with his career as if unaffected. He even referenced the song in a post, stating, “Sometimes you gotta pop out,” quoting the now viral line, “Sometimes you gotta pop out and show n****s.”
Rubin holds his July 4th party every year and it brings out mega stars including Beyonce and Jay-Z, Kim Kardashian, Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Brady and so many more.