The court found that the song “Not Like Us” used rap’s typical hyperbole and did not defame it
This Thursday the 9th the American court rejected the defamation lawsuit filed by Drake against Universal Music Group (UMG) over the song Not like us From Kendrick Lamar.
According to information from advertising billboardfederal judge Jeannette Vargas ruled that the lyrics, which described Drake as a “certified pedophile,” were part of a diss track, a type of rhyme battle common in rap, and did not constitute a factual statement subject to litigation.
The lawsuit, filed in January 2025, alleged that UMG promoted the song with the intention of defaming Drake. The central allegation was that the record company had “spread a harmful narrative” about pedophilia, although Lamar was not directly named as a defendant.
In the decision, the judge specified that the accusation of pedophilia, although serious, was placed in a context of hyperbole typical of rap battles. He stressed that, given the provocative and figurative nature of the text, the public is unlikely to interpret it as a factual statement.
The judge also noted that Drake had used similar language in his songs, as in Family matterswhere he suggested Lamar was a “domestic abuser”.
In a statement sent to advertising billboardDrake’s lawyers said they plan to appeal the decision to the appeals court. UMG also intervened, stating that the action should never have been brought and expressing satisfaction with the dismissal of the case.
Not like us was released in May 2024, topped the charts and won five awards at the 2025 Grammys, including Record of the Year and Song of the Year. The song was also featured in the Super Bowl halftime show, performed live by Lamar.
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.
