Ebro Darden and Drake: A Public Fallout Following Show Cancellation

Ebro Darden's long-running morning radio show, Ebro in the Morning, was officially canceled by Hot 97 on December 12, 2023. Alongside Darden, co-hosts Peter Rosenberg and Laura Stylez were also let go. In a video response, Darden suggested that the cancellation was influenced by his progressive political stance, claiming that the station's owners "don’t give a fuck about hip hop or black music or black community" and that they needed him "out of the way."

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Following the cancellation, Darden revealed Drake's reaction during the first episode of the revamped show, now titled The Ebro Laura Rosenberg Show. Darden shared direct messages from Drake, which included a notably aggressive remark: "Die slower pussy." This was followed by another message stating, "We got some shit for u." Prior to these messages, Drake had commented on an Instagram post about the show's cancellation, using an axe emoji, which Darden interpreted as a sign of hostility.

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Darden has been critical of Drake in the past, particularly regarding the rapper's engagement with social issues. In 2023, he responded to Drake's criticism of Childish Gambino's "This Is America" by stating that Drake has never addressed societal issues affecting Black communities. This criticism has drawn mixed reactions, with some defending Drake by highlighting his past statements on police violence and his opposition to Donald Trump.

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In response to Drake's comments, Rosenberg expressed frustration on social media, stating, "It's behavior like this that has made it impossible for people to defend the wack sh*t that he does." He added a sarcastic holiday greeting, wishing Drake well despite the apparent animosity. Darden later referred to Drake as "right wing," suggesting a broader critique of the rapper's political affiliations.

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• “Die slower pussy,” — Drake, in a direct message to Ebro Darden.

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• “It's behavior like this that has made it impossible for people to defend the wack sh*t that he does.” — Peter Rosenberg, co-host of Ebro in the Morning.

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• “Drake is 'right wing' and so is sAK [sic],” — Ebro Darden, referencing Drake and his supporter Akademiks.

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The cancellation of Ebro in the Morning and the ensuing public exchanges between Darden and Drake may lead to further developments in their relationship, as well as potential shifts in the landscape of hip-hop media commentary. The fallout highlights ongoing tensions between artists and media figures regarding representation and political discourse within the industry.

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