The rapper accuses the record label of spreading false narratives and profiting from the controversy
the rapper Drake took legal action against the Universal Music Group (UMG)accusing the record label of defamation and harassment for promoting the song “Not like us”from Kendrick Lamar. The lawsuit was filed last Wednesday (14) in the US District Court in New York. According to the documents, Drake claims that UMG released the track knowing it contained false accusations against him.
The song, which has become one of the biggest hits of 2024, references allegations that the rapper claims are unfounded and harmful. The lawsuit also accuses the label of “profiting from the controversy” and prioritizing financial gains over the safety and reputation of artists.
Read an excerpt from the text:
[…]
Hey, Drake, I hear you like girls
You better never go to prison in block one
For every bitch who talks to him and is in love
Just check if you hid your little sister from him
[…]
The lawsuit highlights the cover of “Not Like Us,” which uses an image of Drake’s Toronto home marked with symbols indicating the presence of registered sex offenders. After the song’s release, the residence was the target of a shooting that injured a security guard and other break-ins.
Drake also claims that UMG is trying to devalue his image as his contract with the record label nears its end, which would impact a possible renegotiation.
Legal developments and responses from Universal Music
UMG has not yet officially responded to the new accusations (via Variety). However, in previous statements, he had denied any action against the artists. “The idea that UMG would do anything to undermine any of its artists is offensive and false”the company said in November 2024, when the rapper filed legal action.
Drake had previously filed a lawsuit against Spotify and iHeartMedia, alleging collusion to boost the reach of “Not Like Us.” The lawsuit against Spotify has been dropped, but the lawsuit against iHeartMedia continues with a hearing scheduled for this month.
Legal representation
The appeal was brought by the lawyer Michael J. Gottliebknown for representing clients in high profile defamation cases. Among his best-known cases is the defense of the owner of a pizzeria targeted by the “Pizzagate” conspiracy theory.
Drake claims in the lawsuit that he has never committed the crimes or acts mentioned in the song and seeks to hold the record company accountable for publishing content he deems harmful to his image and safety.
“Not Like Us” was one of the biggest hits of 2024 and is nominated for five Grammy Awards. Kendrick Lamar, the song’s creator, is confirmed to headline the 2025 Super Bowl, where the song is expected to be performed.
Source: Terra
Earl Johnson is a music writer at Gossipify, known for his in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the industry. A graduate of USC with a degree in Music, he brings years of experience and passion to his writing. He covers the latest releases and trends, always on the lookout for the next big thing in music.
