DJ Akademiks Discusses Loyalty, Never Meeting Drake, and Being Labeled a “Billboard”

On September 17, 2024, media personality DJ Akademiks addressed ongoing speculation during a live stream, responding to accusations that Drake is utilizing him as a “billboard”for promotional purposes.

He highlighted that his loyalty and transparency are simply reflections of his dedication to the artists and the culture. DJ Akademiks even suggested that this steadfast loyalty might ultimately contribute to his potential downfall in the industry.

“If I ever have a downfall, it’s gonna be my loyalty,”DJ stated.

This clarification followed an interaction during a livestream on September 15, 2024, when a friend accused Akademiks of being leveraged by Drake as a “billboard”for promotion. His friend remarked:

“You think Drake shows you love? He’s using you as a free Billboard! Free promo! That’s not love, bro! He’s using you! That’s a free promo! You are the biggest HipHop media platform!”

This claim seems to have emerged from DJ Akademiks’ unwavering public support for Drake, particularly during the notable Drake-Lamar feud.

DJ Akademiks discloses he has never met Drake amid billboard allegations

On Tuesday, DJ Akademiks tackled online concerns suggesting that he is being exploited by Drake, with critics asserting that Drake does not reciprocate the support. Speaking on his Twitch channel, Akademiks affirmed that his backing for artists, including Drake, is unconditional and does not depend on receiving anything in return.

“I am a very loyal person. I am somebody who, once I start enjoying your music and possibly liking you as a friend, my support is usually non-conditional; it’s based on my loyalty,”DJ explained.

DJ Akademiks also discussed how social media commentators and media figures are trying to impose their standards on his relationship with Drake. He clarified that he is at ease with the fact that he has never met Drake face-to-face, recognizing that, on certain occasions, he could have missed the chance to do so.

“I told you I am okay with not meeting him, and I’ve had multiple opportunities; honestly, I was just too drunk, fell asleep, and went home—or whatever,”Akademiks shared.

The internet personality further underscored that he does not expect anything from Drake, as he does not view his relationship on a “transactional level,”especially with someone he admires and supports.

“Here’s the thing: I do not expect him to give me anything. It’s fascinating how people see it so transactionally; I never view an artist I support in that way,”DJ added.

This is not the first instance where DJ Akademiks has publicly shown support for Drake. His unwavering dedication has even captured the attention of Kendrick Lamar. In an untitled track shared on Instagram, Lamar appeared to subtly criticize Akademiks, making reference to his vocal support for Drake.

“Influencers talk down ’cause I’m not with the basic sh*t/But they don’t hate me, they hate the man that I represent and The radio personality pushing propaganda for salary / Let me know when they turn up as a casualty,”Lamar rapped.

DJ Akademiks wrapped up the stream by suggesting that Drake sees him primarily as a fan. The Canadian rapper has yet to respond to Akademiks’ stream or the online allegations.

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