Drake Pays Tribute to Eminem in Mirror Selfie, Rocking the Same 'Free Yayo' Shirt Worn at the 2003 Grammys
Drake has recently made headlines not just for his music but also for a nod to hip-hop history.
In an Instagram Stories post shared early on July 18, the Toronto rapper flaunted a grey "Free Yayo" t-shirt, paying tribute to G-Unit’s Tony Yayo.
This particular shirt is notably linked to Eminem, who wore it during his high-profile performance at the 2003 Grammy Awards.
The choice of attire is more than a fashion statement; it is a symbol of support and respect.
Eminem sported the "Free Yayo" tee during a memorable Grammy performance, while Tony Yayo was imprisoned for much of 2003 due to bail-jumping charges after an arrest on New Year's Eve in New York City.
Yayo was eventually released in early 2004 but faced additional legal troubles due to a forged passport.
Drake Wears Eminem's 'Free Yayo' T-Shirt:
Drake is wearing the same “Free Yayo” t-shirt in his recent selfie that Eminem wore at the Grammys in 2003 👀 pic.twitter.com/mgTWvqELlC
— WhatsOnRap (@WhatsOnRap__) July 18, 2024
Drake's gesture comes at a particularly charged time in the rap world, reflecting the ongoing tensions between himself and Kendrick Lamar.
Recently, Tony Yayo weighed in on the dispute, commenting on the dynamic between the two megastars. In an interview with DJ Vlad, Yayo suggested that the rivalry might not be as settled as some might think.
Yayo stated:
"I think the battle is not over... we can say what we wanna say... every time we count Drake out he comes back with a f*cking hit... comeback wtih a #1 record the kids are gonna be dancing just like they are to Not Like Us... it was fairly even until Not Like Us..."
Tony Yayo Comments on Drake Wearing Eminem's 'Free Yayo' Shirt, Suggests Kendrick Feud Isn't Over:
Tony Yayo says the Drake & Kendrick Lamar battle isn't over
— SOUND (@itsavibe) July 12, 2024
"I think the battle is not over... we can say what we wanna say... every time we count Drake out he comes back with a f*cking hit... comeback wtih a #1 record the kids are gonna be dancing just like they are to Not Like… pic.twitter.com/LqP11FnV6G
Yayo, who believes that this beef is ultimately beneficial for the hip-hop genre, expressed that as long as it remains just a battle of words and not violence, it's good for the culture.
His comments underscore the high stakes of the rivalry and reflect the broader discussions within the industry about competition and collaboration.
As the debate between Drake and Kendrick Lamar rages on, with Lamar’s latest hit “Not Like Us” topping charts, it’s clear that the competition remains fierce.
However, with Drake’s symbolic gesture and Yayo's insightful commentary, it’s evident that the world of hip-hop is as dynamic and evolving as ever.