KENDRICK LAMAR "CONTROL" VERSE: TDE'S PUNCH REVEALS REASON BEHIND IT & WHO HAD THE BEST RESPONSE??

In this past clip from My Expert Opinion Ep #128, TDE President Punch sits down with Math Hoffa to talk about the legendary "Control" verse by Kendrick Lamar that shook the rap industry.

Punch reveals the verse's secret inspiration: he and Kendrick discussed how the industry was "too friendly," and they agreed that the first person to change that would start a new wave. Punch clarifies the most controversial line, "I'm the King of New York," explaining Kendrick meant he was the new Biggie and Pac combined, rather than a literal geographical diss (and notes the bar's origin was likely a Kurupt reference to Frank White).

Punch details the "pandemonium" that followed, noting the impact when the line was mentioned by Phil Jackson and on SportsCenter. He also discusses the wave of responses, naming Joe Budden as the artist with the best response track and Grafh as having a great, overlooked effort. Finally, Punch confirms that Kendrick was never going to respond to anyone, including Drake and Big Sean, as the intent was purely competitive.