Reminisce says respect in hip-hop comes from skill, not money or streams, citing Kendrick Lamar’s win over Drake as proof that rap values talent over fame

During a recent episode of the On The Record podcast, the ‘Local Rappers’ star explained that the essence of hip-hop remains deeply rooted in lyrical ability, not commercial success.

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Rap is about skill, not wealth or popularity, veteran Nigerian rapper Reminisce has declared.

He appeared alongside fellow rap heavyweight Vector to address the growing debates about who reigns supreme in Nigerian hip-hop.

Their conversation was sparked in part by the ongoing rivalry between rising stars Odumodublvck and Blaqbonez.

Reminisce was clear in his stance. “Hip-hop is the only genre that doesn’t respect numbers or money,” he said.

“No matter how much money you make as a rapper, you can’t buy it. That’s one thing I love about hip-hop. You have to earn it.”

Hip-hop doesn’t respect numbers or money. You can’t buy it—you have to earn it.

He cited the recent lyrical clash between Kendrick Lamar and Drake as a global example of how the rap community prioritises raw skill.

While Drake may lead in streaming numbers and commercial influence, Lamar’s bars and delivery won him acclaim.

“If you look at the margin between Drake and Lamar in terms of commercial \[success], it’s very wide,” Reminisce added. “But because it’s about skill set, which is the primary thing in hip-hop, Lamar won.”

His remarks serve as a reminder of the culture’s foundation—talent, lyricism, and authenticity over numbers and spectacle.

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In a genre where legacy is built on bars, not bank accounts, Reminisce’s words ring true for both fans and aspiring rappers.