Jagmeet Singh, the former leader of Canada’s New Democratic Party, recently stirred controversy after being photographed at Kendrick Lamar’s sold-out Grand National Tour show in Toronto, co-headlined by Lamar and SZA. The concert, part of Lamar’s ongoing feud with Drake, drew attention when Singh appeared in the crowd at Rogers Centre—a moment that did not go unnoticed by Toronto’s homegrown hip-hop icon.

Jagmeet Singh seen vibing to Kendrick Lamar’s ‘tv off’ and ‘Not Like Us’ at the #GrandNationalTour in Toronto. 👀 pic.twitter.com/IigUh8F1p0

— Kendrick Lamar Updates (@KendrickChart) June 16, 2025

Drake’s “You’re a goof” Call-Out

Drake privately messaged Singh via Instagram, calling him a “goof”—a bold rebuke for attending the Toronto performance given the ongoing tension between Drake and Lamar. A screenshot of the message was shared publicly, sparking debate across social media platforms.

Singh’s Apology: “I Went for SZA”

In response, Singh posted an Instagram Story apologizing to Drake:

“I went for SZA, not Kendrick… I was born in this city, I love this city. But real talk, I get it. I shouldn’t have gone at all.”

He emphasized Toronto’s diverse music scene and reaffirmed his allegiance to Drake and OVO’s cultural impact in the city:

“OVO and Drake have lifted this city and Canada. For me, it’ll always be Drake over Kendrick.”

Context: Drake vs. Lamar Rivalry

“I only went for SZA” 👀

Also Jagmeet Singh: pic.twitter.com/aLpQGa2BQe

— kendrick Lyrics (@WordFromKdot) June 16, 2025

The feud between Drake and Kendrick Lamar escalated following Lamar’s diss track “Not Like Us,” which Drake is now suing Universal Music Group over, alleging it defames him.

At the Toronto show, the song prompted a standing ovation and crowd chants for an encore —a direct challenge to Drake’s status in his hometown.

Meanwhile, Drake reinforced his local roots by dropping a new track with Toronto rapper Smiley that same weekend.

Public Reaction & Cultural Significance

Singh’s presence triggered strong reactions—some saw it as a lighthearted fan gesture; others viewed it as a misstep given the high-profile hip-hop rivalry. His apology acknowledges the importance of recognizing when public figures’ actions echo into cultural dynamics.

Jagmeet Singh’s apology illustrates the intersection of politics, celebrity, and fandom. While his intention was reportedly to support SZA, the gesture landed with unintended cultural weight. By owning his mistake and reaffirming his support for Drake—especially as a pillar of Toronto identity—Singh sought to restore goodwill and respect within the local community.

Jagmeet Singh apologizes to Drake after he called him a goof for seeing Kendrick Lamar 👀

“I shouldn’t have gone at all. OVO and Drake have lifted up this city and 🇨🇦. For me it’ll always be Drake over Kendrick.” pic.twitter.com/ca9m3JkV2U

— NFR Podcast (@nfr_podcast) June 16, 2025