During the summer of 2015, Meek Mill celebrated the success of his sophomore album, Dreams Worth More Than Money. In a response to apparent criticism, Meek decided to release a tweet that would shake up the interwebs for months to come.
Twitter Fingers
This tweet on July 21 discredited Toronto artist, Drake as an individual that, “don’t write his own raps” and popularized the term “ghostwriter.” The October’s Very Own artist did not respond kindly to these internet insults. Drake’s dominant verbal response became well documented via diss song, ‘Charged Up.’
Reference tracks from Drake’s, “If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late” surfaced to provide some background for the claims Meek had made. Thanks to Hot 97’s DJ Funkmaster Flex, the world heard Quentin Miller’s version of “10 Bands” which led to further ghostwriting speculation.
On July 29, without a response from Meek Mill, Drake went “Back to Back” with another diss set to demolish his opponent.
With devastating barbs and witty lines, Drake exposed the Philadelphia artist and dug a deeper hole for him to climb out of.
Meek Mill’s initial responses were hardly substantial. Prior to the release of Drake’s “Back to Back” rumors swirled that Meek would drop his own diss track through the Hot 97 platform in accordance with Funkmaster Flex.
First Response
Meek Mill did not follow through with a Hot 97 performance and instead tweeted out his track, “Wanna Know” via Soundcloud. The track referenced Quentin Miller and took a few carefully calculated jabs toward Drake.
Unfortunately, by the time “Wanna Know” came about many had already counted Meek out. Allegedly, Drake’s double output of diss tracks severely tarnished Meek Mill’s reputation. Certainly, following two relentless Drake tracks and a seemingly undeniable victory, the beef between the artists was set to subside.
Rather, at the “6ixth” OVO Fest Drake defamed Mill with memes and images projected upon the background of the stage. Drake teased “3 Peat” a third diss track aimed at Meek that never made it onto the airwaves of the internet.
An entire year later, Drake captivated his loyal audience with the anthem, “Summer Sixteen” This time around, Meek Mill obtained prior knowledge of the Drake content via an undisclosed source.
With prior knowledge of Drake’s lyrics, Meek allotted ample time to map out a strategy that would catch Drake on his heels.
Meek Mill’s Re-Emergence
On January 30, 2016, Drake’s Summer Sixteen became available online through OVO Radio. Almost simultaneously, Meek Mill dropped his latest mixtape, “4/4 Part 2” which featured the destructive record “War Pain.” On this track, Meek was poised to annihilate his ghostwriting opponent. The well-timed project showcased an impressive retaliatory revitalization from this Philadelphia artist.
The Maybach Music Group representative displayed cunningness as his clever scheme proved to pay dividends and lay the groundwork for a monumental musical recovery.
In late October, Meek Mill released what many consider his best album to date, “Dreamchasers 4.” The cover depicts an 11 year-old Meek Mill’s mugshot, complete with a swollen eye which he attributes to police brutality. This strong and stylistic account illustrates Meek’s journey from the gutter of South Philadelphia to a life of luxurious longevity.
Meekend Music
On May 6, Meek Mill released a three track EP titled, “Meekend Music” to celebrate the coming of his 30th birthday. The collection featured the likenesses of A$AP Ferg and Young Thug.
To continue with consistent output, the “Dreamchaser” wisely released a powerful record, Young Black America in collaboration with The Dream.
As an ode to his high-powered lifestyle, Meek also dropped “Glow Up” an energetic track produced by Honorable C-Note.
On July 4th, Meek launched the second installment of his EP series, “Meekend Music II.” This four track collection encapsulates Meek’s hustle, familial obligations and braggadocious nature. Standout track, “Organized Chaos (prod. MikeWillMadeIt) demonstrates Meek’s ability to deliver clever and ominous bars.
Unlimited Duration
Deemed seemingly irrelevant in 2015, Meek Mill has proved his duration in hip-hop does not deserve to be overlooked.
The key to Meek Mill’s success directly derives from his ability to deal with adversity. Meek’s lasting influence proves that he will consistently perform to the highest of his ability.
We have continued to see more of Meek lately as he appeared on Rick Ross’ latest album, dropped his own standout records and even sparked a confrontation between his crew and Safaree outside of the BET Awards.
Now, Meek Mill claims to listen to Drake’s “Back to Back” for motivational purposes. Meek provided his own ‘back to back’ releases in the form of consecutive Meekend Music EP’s.
His “Against All Odds” Tour with Yo Gotti commenced on July 5th and will make its way to twenty one cities in the United States via LiveNation and Tidal.
Overpowering the Opposition
Meek’s forthcoming album, “Wins and Losses” reflects upon the trials and tribulations that molded him into a strong and courageous individual. He also likens himself to the equivalence of a “Floyd Mayweather” or “LeBron James.”
“Yeah, it’s done. I turn it in tomorrow. New album from Meek Mill and it’s turned in, it’s done. We doing mixing and mastering and making it sound spectacular” (Real 92.3 Interview)
Clearly, Meek’s awareness of the struggle in contrast to obtaining success verifies his resilient legacy.