Drake has reportedly ended his long-standing partnership with booking agent Brent Smith, a decision that may have significant ramifications for both his career and his ongoing rivalry with Kendrick Lamar. According to Billboard, the split was executed quietly to minimize media attention, although it has raised eyebrows given Smith’s dual role as Lamar’s representative at Wasserman Music. The two rappers have a complicated history, which includes public tensions that may have influenced this business decision.
Smith had been managing Drake for over a decade, initially at WME before transitioning to Wasserman in 2020, where he serves as executive vice president and managing executive. Sources suggest that Drake and Smith have not collaborated for most of 2025, indicating a deeper rift that may stem from the feud between the two artists.
New Representation for Drake
Following this separation, Drake has aligned himself with the Creative Artists Agency (CAA) for his live representation. Insiders reported that Alex Mebed and Daryl Eaton will take charge of his bookings moving forward. This shift comes as Drake prepares for a highly anticipated concert tour in 2026 in partnership with Live Nation. The implications of this change could be substantial, particularly as fans eagerly await his upcoming album, titled ICEMAN, which is expected to drop soon.
While the dynamics between Drake and Kendrick Lamar have been characterized by lyrical clashes and competitive rivalry, reports indicate that Lamar is reportedly comfortable sharing an agent with Drake. This raises intriguing questions about the future of their relationship, both personally and professionally.
Impact on the Industry
The music industry is closely monitoring these developments, especially in light of Kendrick Lamar’s recent achievements. His tour with SZA has set records, claiming the title of the highest-grossing hip-hop tour of all time, with earnings exceeding $332 million. As the “Grand National” tour continues, those figures are likely to grow, creating further momentum for both artists in the competitive landscape.
Given the stakes involved in their ongoing rivalry, fans are left to wonder how these business decisions will manifest in future music releases. Will the tension find its way into their lyrics once again? The impending release of Drake’s ICEMAN may provide answers, as both artists navigate their careers amid their complex relationship.
As this situation develops, it becomes clear that the world of hip-hop is as much about business as it is about artistry. The implications of Drake’s split from Smith could ripple through the industry, affecting not just their careers but also the broader landscape of hip-hop culture.
