In a shocking turn of events, Sean “Diddy” Combs has recently been arrested, facing serious allegations that have sent waves throughout the music industry. Known for his larger-than-life personality and business acumen, the hip-hop mogul now finds himself at the center of controversy involving accusations of assault and other misconduct. While these allegations are still unfolding, they bring new light to the many criticisms and warnings about Diddy’s behavior over the years. Interestingly, in the past decade, several artists have hinted at Diddy’s darker side, expressing their frustrations and concerns through their music.

Here are five songs written after 2010 that may have foreshadowed the downfall of one of hip-hop’s most powerful figures.

1. “Fuel” by Eminem (2024)

In Fuel, Eminem’s lyrics are raw and personal as he dives deep into the toxic relationships that have fueled his anger throughout his career. While the song largely focuses on Eminem’s internal battles, it also reflects his disdain for the manipulation and exploitation present in the music industry. Eminem raps, “They ignite the fire, but I’m burning for them,” suggesting that the very figures who claim to support him are the ones stoking the flames for their own gain. This can easily be interpreted as a commentary on industry moguls like Diddy, whose control over artists has often been criticized. Fuel paints a picture of artists feeling used, something echoed by many who have worked under Diddy’s watchful eye.

2. “Holy Key” by DJ Khaled ft. Big Sean, Kendrick Lamar, and Betty Wright (2016)

In this powerful track, Big Sean and Kendrick Lamar explore the struggles of fame and the cost of ambition. Big Sean’s verse, in particular, takes on a deeply introspective tone as he reflects on the toxicity of the industry and the people who pull the strings. “Niggas been counting me out, I’m counting my bullets, I’m loading my clips,” Sean raps, suggesting a readiness to fight back against those who’ve wronged him. While the track speaks to a larger frustration with the music industry, many believe the lyrics can apply to figures like Diddy, whose dealings with artists have often come under scrutiny.

3. “Control” by Big Sean ft. Kendrick Lamar and Jay Electronica (2013)

Kendrick Lamar’s infamous verse on “Control” shook the rap world with its audacity and honesty, calling out fellow rappers and challenging the industry’s power dynamics. Though Diddy isn’t mentioned directly, Kendrick’s declaration of war on the complacency of the industry’s gatekeepers seems like a warning shot aimed at moguls who maintain their positions by any means necessary. As Kendrick raps, “I’m usually homeboys with the same niggas I’m rhymin’ with, but this is hip-hop and them niggas should know what time it is,” he touches on the fickle nature of alliances in the rap game—a critique that resonates with many of Diddy’s former collaborators.

4. “False Prophets” by J. Cole (2016)

J. Cole’s “False Prophets” addresses the disillusionment that comes with idolizing public figures, particularly those who have used their power to deceive or manipulate. While many speculated the song was about Kanye West, its broader commentary on fallen heroes and corrupted leaders fits Diddy’s narrative as well. Cole’s lyrics about watching someone “fall from grace” and “chasing the wrong things” echo the sentiments of those who’ve seen Diddy prioritize his own success over the well-being of others. Given the recent allegations, the idea of Diddy being one of hip-hop’s “false prophets” feels more relevant than ever.

5. “Nobody’s Smiling” by Common ft. Big Sean (2014)

On Nobody’s Smiling, Common and Big Sean explore the destructive nature of greed and power in the music industry. Big Sean’s verse touches on betrayal and the toxic relationships that often define the rap game. “I guess I’m looking for more than just your dollars,” Sean raps, a sentiment echoed by many artists who have left Diddy’s Bad Boy Records over disputes regarding money and creative control. The song’s grim tone and focus on the consequences of unchecked ambition are a fitting reflection of the discontent that has surrounded Diddy for years.

Bonus Track

6. “Where Are Ü Now” by Justin Bieber & Jack Ü (2015)

While “Where Are Ü Now” by Justin Bieber may not be a direct diss track, its message about feeling abandoned resonates with Bieber’s experiences in the industry, particularly with Diddy, who was an early mentor to the pop star. In interviews, Bieber has spoken about how Diddy promised to “be there” for him but later distanced himself when the young star was going through personal struggles. The song’s lyrics, “Where are you now that I need you?” reflect a broader feeling of betrayal and disillusionment that many artists, including Bieber, have felt after their relationships with powerful figures like Diddy faded when things got tough.

Conclusion: Warnings Ignored, Now Revealed

The recent allegations against Diddy have cast a long shadow over his legacy, but they are not entirely surprising to those who have followed his career. Through the years, artists have repeatedly dropped hints and warnings about the darker side of the industry and the people who control it, with Diddy often in the crosshairs of that criticism.

The songs written after 2010 serve as more than just lyrical warnings—they are reflections of an industry filled with manipulation, power struggles, and exploitation. While Diddy’s contributions to hip-hop are undeniable, these tracks remind us that the very culture he helped shape has always been a double-edged sword.