Posted by Baby Keem is setting his sights far beyond the conventional labels often placed on modern hip-hop artists. In a recent conversation with Elsie Not Elise, the Las Vegas rapper addressed the ongoing discourse surrounding the industry’s current “Big Three”—Kendrick Lamar, Drake, and J. Cole—and made it clear that he does not aspire to simply join their ranks.
When asked if he viewed himself as a potential successor or peer within that specific hierarchy, Keem was dismissive of the premise. “No. I think it’s like a cop-out,” he stated. “People should just stop saying that. I think music is… Let me reframe that. No. You’re putting boundaries on it.”
Rather than seeking a seat at a table defined by current industry standards, Keem expressed a desire for a more enduring legacy. “I want to be one of the greatest of all time,” he continued. “The new generation thing, I think I’m better than members of the current big three. I don’t view it like that. I never viewed it that way. Yes, there’s age, and there’s a new generation, for sure… I don’t want to be the best of the weakest. I want to be the best of the best. That should be the mentality of everybody coming up.”
The interview also touched upon the creative process behind his latest project, Ca$ino, and the diverse range of artists who have shaped his sound. Keem cited a eclectic mix of influences, including Eminem, Ye, Lil Uzi Vert, and XXXTentacion. He specifically highlighted the impact of XXXTentacion on his artistic evolution, noting, “Die for My B**ch was inspired by [XXXTentacion], in the fact that me being like, I don’t have to be a singer or just a rapper. I can do both at a high level.”
As Keem continues to carve out his own lane, his refusal to conform to industry-imposed categories suggests a rapper focused on longevity and artistic excellence rather than temporary accolades.