Tyler, the Creator has once again flexed his versatility and lyrical prowess, dropping a surprise freestyle over Kendrick Lamar’s beat for “Hey Now.” The track, featured in Tyler’s latest music video titled “That Guy,” offers a fresh take on Lamar’s iconic instrumental. Released on December 25, the video quickly garnered attention for its creative visuals and Tyler’s sharp wordplay, sparking conversations across social media.
Tyler the Creator released the video with the caption, “merry christmas. had fun with it,” surprising fans across all platforms.
In the music video, Tyler takes viewers on a cinematic journey, blending his signature quirky style with dynamic backdrops. Dressed in his trademark preppy-meets-streetwear aesthetic, the Grammy-winning artist effortlessly delivers bar after bar, paying homage to Lamar’s artistry while making the beat entirely his own. Fans and critics alike have praised Tyler’s ability to reinterpret such a revered track with his unique flair.
The decision to freestyle over a Kendrick Lamar beat was bold, given Lamar’s revered status in the hip-hop world. Tyler, however, approached the challenge with confidence. The freestyle incorporates themes of personal growth, individuality, and Tyler’s experiences in the industry. His clever punchlines and fluid delivery serve as a reminder of his evolution as an artist, proving that he’s more than capable of holding his own alongside hip-hop heavyweights.
Fans flooded social media platforms with reactions to the track. One Twitter user wrote, “tyler on kendricks beat is the best christmas gift,” while another wrote “You can tell Kendrick really inspires him, loving how he’s going back to his roots where it all started Hawthorne, CA, with some OF members/friends. it’s like a full circle moment for. happy for him,” according to People.
Tyler has remained prolific in 2024, following the success of his recent album Call Me If You Get Lost: The Estate Sale. This latest freestyle underscores his ability to stay relevant and experimental in an ever-changing music landscape.
In addition to the freestyle, Tyler announced a world tour in support of his latest album, Chromakopia, set to begin in February 2025. Meanwhile, Kendrick Lamar has also revealed plans for a joint tour with SZA, scheduled from April to June 2025, indicating a vibrant year ahead for both artists, People reports.
Fans have responded enthusiastically to “That Guy,” praising Tyler’s creativity and the seamless blend of his style with Lamar’s production. The collaboration has sparked discussions about potential future projects between the two influential rappers, with many hoping for more joint efforts.
Critics have noted that Tyler’s decision to freestyle over “Hey Now” showcases his respect for Lamar’s work while also asserting his own artistic identity. The video has been described as a “masterful reimagining” and a testament to Tyler’s growth as an artist, according to Pitchfork.
As both artists prepare for their respective tours, the release of “That Guy” serves as a reminder of the dynamic and collaborative nature of the hip-hop community. Fans eagerly anticipate what the future holds for Tyler, the Creator and Kendrick Lamar, both individually and potentially together.
