Drake’s record label, Universal Music Group (UMG), has responded to his defamation lawsuit, calling the claims baseless. The lawsuit concerns the release of Kendrick Lamar’s diss track Not Like Us, which Drake argues defamed him with false accusations.
Drake Accuses Label of Spreading Malicious Claims
On Tuesday, Drake filed a lawsuit claiming UMG allowed Lamar’s song to spread a damaging and false narrative. The track, released last year, labeled Drake and his entourage as “certified paedophiles,” a claim Drake says the label knew was untrue. He alleged the company prioritized profits over protecting his reputation and safety.
Drake further linked the controversy to a shooting at his Toronto mansion, suggesting UMG’s actions contributed to the incident. He accused the label of fueling the feud for publicity by promoting Lamar’s song as a viral hit. Despite the accusations, Drake’s lawsuit does not directly target Lamar, focusing solely on UMG’s role in the track’s release and promotion.
Universal Denies Wrongdoing, Defends Artistic Expression
UMG rejected Drake’s claims, stating it has consistently supported his career for over a decade. The label emphasized its investments in Drake’s music, which helped him achieve significant commercial success. In a statement, UMG called the allegations “illogical,” adding that it has never engaged in defamation against any artist.
The label also accused Drake of attempting to suppress artistic expression. “Drake has long used rap battles to address his feelings about other artists,” UMG stated. “Now, he seeks to weaponize legal processes to silence creative works and demand damages for distributing another artist’s music.”
UMG concluded by asserting its commitment to ethical practices, emphasizing that the lawsuit unfairly portrays its actions.
The legal battle, filed in the US District Court for the Southern District of New York, marks another chapter in Drake and Lamar’s heated rivalry. Both artists exchanged accusations in diss tracks last year, intensifying tensions. Drake claimed in court documents that UMG knowingly exploited Lamar’s false lyrics, endangering his safety and well-being in the process.
