The music video for Taylor Swift’s hit single “Bad Blood” is famous for its star-studded cast, dramatic storytelling, and explosive visuals. Among the many notable appearances in the video, one question frequently arises: who was the rapper featured in “Bad Blood”?
The track itself is a powerful anthem of betrayal and rivalry, and the added rap verse brings a fresh layer of intensity and edge to the song. Understanding the identity of the rapper not only enriches our appreciation of the song but also highlights the collaboration that helped make the track a pop culture phenomenon.
Released in 2015 as part of Taylor Swift’s album “1989,” “Bad Blood” quickly became a chart-topping hit. The remix version, featuring a rap verse, added a new dimension that captured the attention of both pop and hip-hop audiences.
The rapper’s contribution was pivotal, making the song more dynamic and broadening its appeal across different music fan bases.
Let’s explore the details behind this collaboration, the artist involved, and the impact of their presence on the song and its music video. This dive into the rapper’s identity will connect you to the creative process behind “Bad Blood” and its lasting influence in the music industry.
The Rapper Featured in “Bad Blood”
The rapper who lent her voice to the remix of “Bad Blood” is none other than Kendrick Lamar. Known for his profound lyricism and dynamic flow, Kendrick brought a bold contrast to Taylor Swift’s singing style, enhancing the track’s emotional depth and energy.
Kendrick Lamar is a critically acclaimed American rapper, songwriter, and producer whose work often tackles themes of race, politics, and personal struggle. His collaboration with Taylor Swift was somewhat unexpected but brilliant, blending Swift’s pop sensibilities with Lamar’s gritty rap style.
The addition of Kendrick’s verse transformed “Bad Blood” from a straightforward pop anthem into a more complex song with layers of attitude and storytelling. His unique contribution helped the song reach a broader audience and cemented the remix as a memorable moment in music history.
“I wanted to create something that felt like a real clash, a battle of emotions, and Kendrick’s verse brought exactly that.” – Taylor Swift
Kendrick Lamar’s Career and Influence
Kendrick Lamar has been one of the most influential voices in hip-hop for over a decade. His lyricism, storytelling, and social commentary have earned him numerous awards and critical acclaim.
Understanding his career sheds light on why his feature on “Bad Blood” was so impactful.
Starting from his early mixtapes to his Grammy-winning albums like “To Pimp a Butterfly” and “DAMN.,” Kendrick has consistently pushed the boundaries of hip-hop. His music often addresses systemic injustices and personal introspection, making him a voice for a generation.
Collaborating with Taylor Swift was a notable crossover moment, showing Kendrick’s versatility and willingness to experiment beyond traditional hip-hop. This partnership opened doors for more genre-blending collaborations in the industry.
Kendrick Lamar’s Notable Achievements
- Multiple Grammy Awards, including Best Rap Album
- Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People
- Pulitzer Prize for Music for “DAMN.”
- Collaborations with artists across diverse musical genres
The Significance of Kendrick Lamar’s Verse in “Bad Blood”
The remix of “Bad Blood” featuring Kendrick Lamar introduced a fresh energy to the song. His verse added an aggressive, confrontational tone that aligned with the song’s themes of betrayal and conflict.
This partnership symbolized a bridge between pop and rap genres.
Kendrick’s rap complements Taylor’s vocal delivery by providing a contrasting rhythm and lyrical complexity. His verse is packed with vivid imagery and sharp wordplay, which contrasts with Swift’s melodic chorus, creating a dynamic interplay.
The remix version received praise for its boldness and creativity. It became a staple in both artists’ repertoires, demonstrating how collaboration can elevate a track beyond its original scope.
| Original “Bad Blood” | Remix Featuring Kendrick Lamar |
| Pure pop production | Blend of pop and hip-hop beats |
| Focus on vocal melodies | Inclusion of rap verse with lyrical depth |
| Primarily sung by Taylor Swift | Alternates between Swift’s singing and Lamar’s rap |
The Making of the “Bad Blood” Music Video and Kendrick’s Role
The “Bad Blood” music video is renowned for its cinematic quality and all-star cast, with Taylor Swift at the center of a revenge-themed narrative. Kendrick Lamar’s presence is particularly notable in the remix’s video version, where he plays a key role in the storyline.
In the video, Kendrick appears as a fierce and commanding character, contributing to the visual storytelling through his rap performance and on-screen presence. His role adds a layer of authenticity and intensity to the video’s themes of rivalry and empowerment.
The collaboration between Swift and Lamar extended beyond audio, creating a powerful audiovisual experience that captivated fans. The video’s popularity helped the song maintain a lasting place in pop culture and emphasized the importance of Kendrick’s contribution.
“Working on the video with Kendrick was a blast — his energy raised the whole production.” – Taylor Swift
Public and Critical Reception of the Collaboration
The collaboration between Taylor Swift and Kendrick Lamar on “Bad Blood” was met with widespread acclaim. Critics praised the unexpected pairing and the fresh sound it created.
Fans from both artists’ followings embraced the remix enthusiastically.
Many highlighted Kendrick’s rap verse as a standout feature, adding emotional weight and lyrical sophistication to the song. The remix also performed well commercially, topping charts and receiving substantial radio play.
This collaboration showed how artists from different genres could come together to create something innovative and exciting. It set a precedent for future cross-genre partnerships in the music industry.
- Billboard Hot 100 peak position: #1
- Grammy nomination for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance
- Over 1 billion views on the official music video
- Considered a milestone in pop and hip-hop collaborations
How Kendrick Lamar’s Feature Changed the Song’s Impact
Before Kendrick’s involvement, “Bad Blood” was already a strong pop track. However, his rap verse gave the song a new edge, making it more versatile and appealing to diverse audiences.
This shift broadened the song’s cultural reach and longevity.
His presence introduced a storytelling element that deepened the song’s emotional narrative. The contrast between Swift’s melodic vocals and Lamar’s incisive rap created a dynamic tension that kept listeners engaged.
Moreover, the remix became a cultural moment that highlighted the power of collaboration in music. It inspired other artists to explore genre fusion, showing that creativity thrives when boundaries are crossed.
Before and After Kendrick’s Feature
| Before | After |
| Pop-centric audience | Expanded to hip-hop and crossover fans |
| Simple melodic structure | Added rhythmic complexity and lyrical depth |
| Music video focused on Taylor Swift | Inclusion of Kendrick Lamar as a key character |
Other Noteworthy Collaborations of Kendrick Lamar
Kendrick Lamar’s collaboration on “Bad Blood” is just one example of his diverse partnerships. Over the years, he has worked with a wide range of artists across genres, showcasing his adaptability and creative range.
From working with pop stars like SZA to joining forces with legends like Dr. Dre, Kendrick has continually expanded his musical horizons.
These collaborations have helped shape modern hip-hop and influenced popular music as a whole.
His ability to blend into various styles without losing his distinctive voice makes him a sought-after collaborator, elevating tracks with his presence and lyricism.
- “Love” with Kendrick Lamar and Zacari (from Black Panther soundtrack)
- “All the Stars” with SZA
- “Goosebumps” with Travis Scott
- “New Freezer” with Rich The Kid
Exploring the Broader Context of Artist Collaborations
The success of “Bad Blood” featuring Kendrick Lamar illustrates the importance of collaboration in today’s music scene. Artists increasingly cross genres to reach new audiences and innovate creatively.
Collaborations like this encourage fans to explore different musical styles and celebrate diversity in artistry. They also create unique opportunities for artists to challenge themselves and grow.
Understanding the context behind such partnerships adds appreciation for the music and highlights the evolving nature of the industry.
“Collaboration is the heartbeat of modern music. It breaks barriers and builds bridges.” – Music Industry Expert
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Conclusion: The Lasting Legacy of Kendrick Lamar in “Bad Blood”
The answer to the question “what was the name of the rapper in ‘Bad Blood’?” is Kendrick Lamar, an artist whose contribution elevated the song to new heights. His rap verse added intensity, depth, and a fresh perspective that resonated with millions around the globe.
Kendrick’s collaboration with Taylor Swift broke genre barriers and set a standard for future musical partnerships. The remix of “Bad Blood” remains a powerful example of how two distinct styles can merge to create something memorable and culturally significant.
By understanding Kendrick Lamar’s role, we gain insight into the artistry and vision behind one of the decade’s most iconic tracks. The synergy between the artists amplified the song’s message of betrayal and empowerment, making it a timeless anthem.
As music continues to evolve, collaborations like this remind us of the magic that happens when artists dare to step outside their comfort zones. For readers curious about names and origins in other contexts, you might enjoy learning more about is Moore a black last name?
origins and insights explained or exploring Is Vlad a Romanian Name? Origins and Meaning Explained for some intriguing name histories.
