Drake Sues Universal Music Group Over Kendrick Lamar Diss Track ‘Not Like Us’

In a significant escalation of tensions within the hip-hop industry, renowned rapper Drake has filed a defamation lawsuit against his record label, Universal Music Group (UMG). The legal action centers on Kendrick Lamar’s diss track, “Not Like Us,” which Drake alleges contains defamatory content and has led to real-world consequences.

Allegations Against UMG

Drake’s lawsuit asserts that UMG not only permitted the release of “Not Like Us” but actively promoted it, despite the track’s false allegations labeling him a pedophile. He contends that the label prioritized profit over artist safety, fostering an environment that encouraged harassment and violence against him. Notably, Drake does not name Kendrick Lamar as a defendant in the lawsuit, focusing instead on UMG’s role in the track’s dissemination.

UMG’s Response

In response to the lawsuit, UMG has denied the allegations, describing them as unfounded and illogical. The company emphasizes its significant investment in Drake’s music and maintains that it employs ethical marketing practices.

Escalation of the Drake-Kendrick Lamar Feud

The rivalry between Drake and Kendrick Lamar has been ongoing for over a decade, intensifying in recent years with the release of several diss tracks. “Not Like Us” has been particularly impactful, achieving significant commercial success, including Grammy nominations and record-breaking streams.

Real-World Consequences

Drake’s lawsuit highlights several incidents that he attributes to the defamatory nature of “Not Like Us,” including a shooting outside his Toronto residence and multiple break-in attempts. He argues that UMG’s actions have directly endangered his safety and that of his family.

Legal Proceedings and Industry Implications

This lawsuit is not Drake’s first legal action against UMG. He previously filed, and later withdrew, a petition alleging that UMG and Spotify artificially inflated streaming numbers for Lamar’s track. The current defamation suit seeks unspecified damages and has the potential to influence industry practices regarding artist disputes and label responsibilities.

Conclusion

The outcome of Drake’s lawsuit against UMG could set a precedent for how record labels manage conflicts between artists and the extent of their responsibility in promoting content that may have defamatory implications. As the case unfolds, it will be closely watched by industry stakeholders and fans alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the basis of Drake’s lawsuit against UMG?

Drake alleges that UMG promoted Kendrick Lamar’s diss track “Not Like Us,” which contains false and defamatory statements about him, prioritizing profit over his safety.

2. Is Kendrick Lamar named in the lawsuit?

No, Kendrick Lamar is not named as a defendant in Drake’s lawsuit; the legal action focuses solely on UMG’s role.

3. How has UMG responded to the allegations?

UMG has denied the allegations, describing them as unfounded and illogical, and emphasizes its investment in Drake’s music.

4. What incidents does Drake attribute to the diss track’s release?

Drake cites a shooting outside his Toronto residence and multiple break-in attempts as consequences of the track’s release.

5. Has Drake taken previous legal action related to this matter?

Yes, Drake previously filed, and later withdrew, a petition alleging that UMG and Spotify artificially inflated streaming numbers for Lamar’s track.

6. What impact could this lawsuit have on the music industry?

The lawsuit could influence how record labels manage conflicts between artists and their responsibilities in promoting potentially defamatory content.

From Viraldes