Drake Files Defamation Suit Against UMG Over 'Not Like Us'

Drake Alleges UMG's Prioritization of Profitability Over Artist Safety

The musician Drake has intensified his legal conflict with Universal Music Group (UMG) by filing a lawsuit that accuses the label of damaging his reputation and compromising his safety for financial benefit. This legal challenge originates from a diss track titled 'Not Like Us' by fellow UMG artist Kendrick Lamar. In his legal documents, Drake reiterates claims that UMG employed bots on platforms like Spotify and engaged in payola to amplify the track's popularity.

According to the lawsuit filed on May 4, 2024, UMG allegedly endorsed, distributed, and supported the creation of a viral sensation centered on a rap song that wrongly labels Drake as a pedophile and promotes violence against him. The suit argues that despite UMG profiting tremendously from Drake's music over the years, the company knowingly ignored the false accusations against him in pursuit of monetary gain at the expense of their artists' safety.

The legal document recounts an incident at Drake's residence, where a security guard was injured during a shooting that occurred shortly after the song's release. The lawsuit claims that subsequent break-ins were also a direct result of UMG’s actions.

Potential Motives Behind UMG's Strategies Unveiled

Drake's legal team speculates on why UMG might set its own artists against each other. According to their theory, UMG's moves are at least partly driven by a strategic interest in solidifying future contract negotiations with Kendrick Lamar and Drake, set for 2024 and 2025 respectively. UMG purportedly sought to showcase its ability to maximize Lamar's sales rapidly, hoping to extend his contract beyond its short-term nature.

In regard to Drake, his contract nearing completion in 2024 posed a challenge for UMG, which foresaw significant expenses to renew the agreement. Allegedly, the label saw an opportunity to undermine Drake's marketability and brand as leverage for contract extension discussions.

Legal Stance specifically Naming UMG Alone

Kendrick Lamar is not listed as a defendant in the case. Instead, the lawsuit places responsibility squarely on UMG, arguing that the company knew the lyrics' allegations were categorically false before deciding to release the song.

Drake's team emphasizes that he has never been involved in any inappropriate behavior with minors nor has he faced criminal charges. His legal team claims all allegations in the song are baseless.

This lawsuit follows an earlier petition, filed in November, which accused UMG and Spotify of inflating 'Not Like Us' through payola and automated streaming. Although this petition was recently withdrawn, today's lawsuit repeats claims of using financial incentives to secure the song's radio play and bolster its streaming presence on digital platforms.

As of now, UMG has not provided a response to the recent lawsuit.