Drake Takes Aim at LeBron, Kendrick, J. Cole on New Track Ahead of ICEMAN Album

Drake is gearing up for his ninth studio album release, and a surprise track that surfaced Wednesday evening is already sparking debate online.

The 39-year-old rapper's newly leaked song "1 AM in Albany" contains sharp commentary aimed at several notable figures. The tune takes aim at his well-documented rival Kendrick Lamar, fellow rapper J. Cole, basketball icon LeBron James, and media personality Joe Budden.

In one verse, Drake addresses LeBron directly, referencing the basketball legend's career moves between different franchises. The bars appear to reference LeBron's transitions from Cleveland to Miami, back to Cleveland, and eventually to the Los Angeles Lakers. Drake also includes a reference to DNA testing in the same section.

The LeBron reference marks a notable shift in tone between the two, who have maintained a publicly friendly relationship over the years. Drake has previously praised the athlete in his music. However, tensions may have surfaced after LeBron attended Kendrick Lamar's The Pop Out concert in Los Angeles two years ago and was spotted enjoying the Drake diss track "Not Like Us." Last year, LeBron suggested some distance had developed, telling media that he and Drake were "in different places right now" while maintaining there was "always love."

Elsewhere on the track, Drake appears to reference J. Cole's decision to step back from his brief 2024 involvement in the Kendrick feud, with bars about a "married rapper" who has "settled" into his ways.

Another line on the song seemingly targets Kendrick through a basketball reference, comparing him to a player known for his shorter stature and suggesting surprise at an unexpected achievement.

The track also contains extended commentary aimed at Joe Budden, with Drake making provocative claims about personal matters. Budden subsequently appeared to respond to the bars.

ICEMAN is scheduled to arrive Friday, May 15.