UK grime artist Novelist has officially entered the brewing transatlantic rap battle with his new diss track “Everybody Cares,” aimed directly at American rapper Joyner Lucas. The song dropped in response to Joyner’s track “Nobody Cares,” which itself was a retaliation to Skepta’s July 11 diss “Friendly Fire.” Novelist’s entry signals that the UK is not backing down from what has become one of the most entertaining lyrical standoffs of the summer.
The drama began when Skepta boldly challenged U.S. rappers, asserting that UK lyricists were more formidable. Joyner Lucas took the bait, replying online and releasing his own sharp response just days later. Novelist’s “Everybody Cares” keeps the momentum alive, delivering his signature grime sound and a message that the UK scene isn’t one to be underestimated. With each response, the back-and-forth becomes less about personal jabs and more about lyrical dominance.
Online reaction has been mixed but passionate. UK fans have praised Novelist’s delivery and his decision to stand up for his side of the Atlantic. Some U.S. fans, however, see the feud as overblown, calling it more spectacle than substance. Nonetheless, the buzz has elevated the profile of all involved, with social media lighting up in real time as each new track drops.
The wider hip-hop world is watching closely, especially after Drake recently declared London the home of the best lyricists. With this momentum, the battle lines between UK grime and U.S. rap continue to blur and expand, opening the door for more artists to join the clash. Whether this remains a few sharp verses or turns into a full-blown movement, one thing is certain: the UK isn’t stepping back from the mic anytime soon.
In the “Everybody Cares” diss track, Novelist mentions Eminem: “Say you sound like Eminem that’s a white lie, the lyrical s–t wont fly, you look like an influencer from Dubai.” Check out the disstrack below:
