Joey Bada$$ Battles West Coast Rappers In Red Bull Freestyle

Joey Bada$$ recently reignited an East Coast versus West Coast rap feud through his freestyle on Red Bull 1520's Spiral Freestyle series, where he addressed West Coast rappers Daylyt and Ray Vaughn with sharp lyrics responding to their diss tracks. This feud traces back to Joey's 2025 track "The Ruler's Back," which included pointed bars aimed at the West Coast scene and Kendrick Lamar, provoking responses from TDE artists. Despite the tension, fellow West Coast rapper Ab-Soul took a diplomatic stance during the freestyle session. Joey also reflected on his early career decisions, revealing he nearly signed with Jay-Z's Roc Nation as a teenager but chose an independent path due to management conflicts, while also praising 50 Cent as a mentor. Beyond music, Joey has made a name as an actor and community activist, launching a mentorship program to support young men of color. The ongoing lyrical exchanges underscore Joey's commitment to defending East Coast hip-hop prominence amid the West Coast's recent dominance.