Hip-hop sensation Drake has taken legal action against Universal Music Group (UMG) for defamation following the release of rival Kendrick Lamar’s diss track “Not Like Us.” The lawsuit, filed in a federal court in New York City, accuses UMG of publishing and promoting the track despite it containing false pedophilia allegations against Drake and encouraging vigilante justice. While Lamar is not directly named in the suit, the repercussions of the track have had a significant impact on Drake’s life and career.
The lawsuit alleges that the release of “Not Like Us” led to a security breach at Drake’s Toronto residence, where intruders shot a security guard. Additionally, Drake experienced online hate and harassment, damaging his reputation and diminishing the value of his brand just before entering contract renegotiations with UMG. The legal action emphasizes that the primary target is UMG for choosing to profit from and endorse dangerous and unfounded accusations against Drake.
According to the lawsuit, UMG’s decision to push forward with the controversial track was motivated by financial gain, as the inflammatory content was deemed a lucrative asset. Furthermore, the legal filing claims that UMG has strategically facilitated the performance of “Not Like Us” at the upcoming Super Bowl, with Lamar headlining the halftime show. The litigation, seeking a trial and unspecified damages, also echoes previous claims that UMG artificially boosted the track’s popularity on streaming platforms.
Representatives for Drake have refrained from commenting on the ongoing legal developments, while UMG and Lamar’s representatives have yet to respond to requests for statements. Responding to allegations made in pre-litigation filings, UMG has vehemently denied any wrongdoing, asserting their commitment to ethical marketing practices and support for their artists.
The feud between Drake, a renowned Canadian artist with multiple Grammy wins, and Lamar, a Pulitzer Prize recipient hailing from the United States, has captivated the hip-hop community in recent years. Despite a history of collaboration, tensions between the two escalated significantly in 2020, culminating in this legal battle.
Legal representation for Drake, provided by the New York-based firm Willkie Farr & Gallagher, stresses that the lawsuit aims to hold UMG accountable for perpetuating damaging falsehoods about Drake. As the case unfolds, the music industry awaits the resolution of this high-profile dispute that has shaken the rap world.
