Michael Rubin Confirms He Banned ‘Not Like Us’ From His 2024 All-White Party

Michael Rubin made the decision not to play ‘Not Like Us’ at his annual all-white party in the Hamptons.

Michael Rubin, the Fanatics founder, asked the DJs at his Fourth of July party not to play Kendrick Lamar’s diss track “Not Like Us” out of respect for his friend Drake, who was in attendance.

“Drake [has been] my friend for a long time,” the Fanatics CEO went on to explain. He proceeded, “I just didn’t think it was appropriate, so I sent a note [saying], ‘Hey, let’s not play anyone’s music that’s feuding with anyone there.’”

Rubin clarified that the idea was not the Toronto native’s, when asked who thought of the conception. “That was a me decision. I just thought it was the appropriate thing.” 

Despite not being played at the all-white event, Rubin disclosed that the track was indeed played at a smaller event he had hosted the day before the holiday. He shared, “It was supposed to be 30 people. It turned into 200 people and went on for about 10 hours. That was the pre-game to the white party. When they turned the music on in my house, they put [on Spotify’s] Rap Caviar, and ‘Not Like Us’ came on. It was in the middle of ‘Not Like Us,’ and I’m like, ‘Get that off! Get that off!’” the Fanatics CEO continued. Drake wasn’t in the area at that time, but according to Rubin, “He was pulling up soon.”

When discussing the ongoing “beef” between Kendrick and Drake, Rubin stated, “You have to be built for social media – tough enough to take the criticism and abuse from people.” He acknowledged Drake’s iconic status, saying, “We all have tremendous respect for him. But this is a great test. You can’t reach that level of success without people coming after you.”

Ultimately, Rubin believes this situation is “a great test for Drake” and that he’ll “come out with lots of incredible music” proving why he’s one of the best.