7 Key Takeaways from Drake x Conductor Williams’ New Freestyle ‘FIGHTING IRISH’

Drake has once again captured the music world’s attention with his new freestyle “FIGHTING IRISH,” produced by the acclaimed Conductor Williams. In this raw and deeply personal track, Drake offers sharp commentary on loyalty, betrayal, fame, and the state of the rap game.

Here are the seven key takeaways from the freestyle that’s set to spark conversations across the music industry:

1. Betrayal and Broken Trust

Drake doesn’t hold back as he reflects on the disloyalty he’s experienced from those once close to him. Lines like “Just know this sht is personal to us, and it wasn’t just business”* and “Loyalty wasn’t a given” reveal a man grappling with betrayal. The freestyle serves as a scathing message to those who turned their backs on him when his success skyrocketed.

2. Criticism of the Industry’s Gimmicks

Drake critiques the music industry’s focus on spectacle over substance, rapping, “The world fell in love with the gimmicks, even my brothers got tickets, seemed like they loved every minute.” This line suggests frustration with the industry’s embrace of trends and the lack of authenticity among peers.

3. A Swipe at Celebratory Fake Friends

The track is peppered with pointed observations about shallow relationships in the entertainment world. Drake’s disdain is evident in lines like, “It’s funny to see you all rejoicin’ and huggin’ and kissin’. What are we celebratin’? Nothing was the same with all you btches, and nothing’s forgiven.”* The sharp tone highlights his refusal to forgive those who abandoned him.

4. Rap Beef Isn’t the Priority

While Drake has often been embroiled in rap beefs, in “FIGHTING IRISH,” he dismisses the drama, stating, “Fck a rap beef, I’m tryna get the party lit.”* He criticizes the oversaturation of violent themes in rap, pointing out the disparity between those who rap about violence and those who live it: “Thousand ns rapping murder sht and like ten ns that will really do it.”*

5. A Shoutout to 21 Savage

Drake takes a moment to appreciate his collaborator and friend 21 Savage, calling him the only one who checks in during tough times: “Savage, you the only n*** checking on me when we in some sht, brudda.” This nod underscores their close bond and 21’s consistent support.

6. Reflections on Success and Isolation

Drake laments the isolation that comes with success, using imagery like “Cold shoulders I gave in the Hamptons, it come with the distance.” He also critiques how people around him have celebrated his struggles, rapping, “What are we celebratin’?” These lines illustrate his disillusionment with fame and its accompanying loneliness.

7. A Warning for His Enemies

Drake ends the freestyle with veiled warnings and cryptic lines about those plotting against him: “Who’s got the most to lose, and who’s in that other position? Signal conversations, boy I hope they got double encryption.” He hints at the potential downfall of his detractors, adding, “I hate to see their empire crumble on judges’ convictions.”

“FIGHTING IRISH” is more than just another freestyle—it’s a manifesto. With Conductor Williams’ gritty production as the backdrop, Drake lays bare his frustrations, heartbreaks, and observations on the current state of his life and career. The freestyle reveals a more introspective and hardened Drake, reminding listeners why he remains one of the most compelling voices in the industry.

This track is sure to reignite debates among fans and critics alike about loyalty, fame, and the price of success. As Drake moves forward, one thing is clear: his pen is as sharp as ever, and his words cut deep.

Drake x Conductor full freestyle with a bit clearer audio pic.twitter.com/afhDc5vPgj

— King Jared (@certifiedjared) January 3, 2025