Drake has taken legal action against his longtime label, Universal Music Group (UMG). The lawsuit concerns the promotion of Kendrick Lamar’s diss track Not Like Us. The Canadian rapper alleges that the song contains false and damaging claims, endangering his safety and that of his family.
Here’s more about Drake’s recent lawsuit:
Drake now sues his label Universal Music over Kendrick Lamar’s song
Drake has filed a lawsuit against Universal Music Group (UMG), accusing the label of defamation and negligence in promoting Kendrick Lamar’s diss track Not Like Us.
The song allegedly makes false and damaging claims about Drake, labeling him a pedophile and urging “vigilante justice.” According to the lawsuit, these claims have endangered Drake and his family. He has had to increase security and deal with major disruptions to his personal life. This includes pulling his son out of school.
The legal complaint, filed in federal court, accuses UMG of prioritizing profit over artist safety. Drake alleges the label intentionally promoted the controversial track to stir controversy and drive viral engagement, despite knowing its claims were false. The lawsuit describes UMG’s actions as “corporate greed over the safety and well-being of its artists.” It further alleges that the label used manipulative practices like streaming bots and pay-for-play schemes to boost the song’s visibility.
Drake claims the fallout from Not Like Us included multiple break-ins at his home and violent incidents targeting his property. He also alleges UMG’s actions were motivated by a desire to favor Lamar while devaluing Drake ahead of contract renegotiations.
UMG has denied all allegations, calling the lawsuit baseless and insisting it would not seek to harm an artist with whom it has enjoyed a long-standing partnership. In a statement, the label said, “The notion that we would seek to harm the reputation of any artist—let alone Drake—is illogical.” The company further emphasized its substantial investment in Drake’s career (via BBC).
While Kendrick Lamar is not named as a defendant in the case, Drake’s legal team asserts that UMG bears full responsibility for approving and promoting the defamatory track.
