Music producer and rising solo artist Elkan is everywhere right now, and if you haven’t caught on yet, it’s time to pay attention. The talented musician, who is signed to Big Beat Records and Atlantic Records, has spent years as one of hip-hop’s most trusted behind-the-scenes names. He produced Drake‘s fan-favorite track “Nokia” and worked on the last three of the rapper’s albums. But lately, Elkan has been stepping into the spotlight in his own right, and his recent moves prove he’s ready for it.

Inside Elkan And Becky G’s New Collab

Earlier this spring, Elkan teamed up with global pop sensation Becky G for their bilingual single “MARATHON,” which dropped March 27. The pair filmed the music video across the streets of Milan, and the result is exactly as electrifying as it sounds.

Fans paying close attention may also spot a fun PATRÓN moment woven into the visuals. During one sleek barbershop scene, Becky is presented with a bottle of the brand’s signature PATRÓN Silver Tequila on a platter before casually pouring herself a drink. It’s a subtle but stylish cameo that adds even more personality to the video’s already cinematic feel.

Becky G moves effortlessly between English and Spanish on the track while Elkan brings his signature production energy. The video features bold choreography, paparazzi flashes, and a runway-meets-street-style aesthetic that perfectly matches the song’s unstoppable vibe. It’s a collab that works on every level.

‘Robotic Love’ Is His Solo Statement

If “MARATHON” showed what Elkan can do with a marquee collaborator, his solo single “Robotic Love” shows what he sounds like when it’s all him. The track, released May 4 on Big Beat/Atlantic Records, is being called a strong contender for song of the summer. It blends pop melodies, global influences, and rhythmic complexity in a way that’s both fresh and instantly familiar. The futuristic music video is the perfect companion to the song.

Keeping It Cool in the Spotlight

Paparazzi caught up with Elkan recently, and he was as relaxed and confident as you’d expect from someone riding this kind of momentum. He talked about his relationship with Drake and weighed in on the ongoing Drake-Kendrick Lamar conversation in his own way. No drama, just a guy who clearly knows where he stands and where he’s headed.

The Drake-Kendrick Lamar Feud Explained

The feud between Drake and Kendrick Lamar exploded into one of hip-hop’s biggest battles after years of simmering tension. While fans had long speculated there was quiet competition between the two rap superstars, things escalated in March 2024 when Kendrick took direct aim at Drake (and J. Cole) on Future and Metro Boomin’s track “Like That.”

“Motherf-cker the big three [sic] it’s just big me,” Kendrick rapped, shutting down the long-running narrative that he, Drake, and J. Cole were hip-hop’s “Big Three.”

Drake fired back with tracks including “Push Ups” and “Taylor Made Freestyle,” the latter of which drew controversy for using AI-generated vocals resembling Tupac Shakur and Snoop Dogg.

The Rap Battle That Took Over Pop Culture

Kendrick then escalated the feud with “Euphoria,” a nearly six-minute diss track criticizing Drake’s persona, parenting, and authenticity. He followed it with “6:16 in LA,” before dropping the explosive “Meet the Grahams,” where he addressed Drake’s family directly and accused him of hiding another child.

But the biggest cultural moment came with “Not Like Us,” Kendrick’s now-Grammy-winning diss anthem that became a chart-topping hit and viral phenomenon. The song accused Drake and his inner circle of predatory behavior (allegations Drake has denied) and quickly became a rallying cry for Kendrick fans.

Drake responded with “Family Matters” and “The Heart Part 6,” pushing back against accusations and claiming Kendrick had been fed false information.

Since then, Kendrick’s “Not Like Us” dominated pop culture, won major awards, and even became a centerpiece during his high-profile performances, while Drake has largely shifted focus back to music releases and touring.

What’s Next

With “Robotic Love” out now, a collab with Becky G already racking up streams, 2026 is shaping up to be a massive year for Elkan. Stream “Robotic Love” and “MARATHON” now, and follow along because this one is just getting started.