Drake has initiated a legal battle against his own record label, Universal Music Group (UMG), filing a federal lawsuit that accuses the company of defaming him. The lawsuit claims UMG spread a “false and malicious narrative” by promoting Kendrick Lamar’s diss track “Not Like Us.” Both artists are signed to UMG but under different divisions, with Drake under Republic Records and Lamar under Interscope.
The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, alleges that UMG conspired to “artificially inflate” Lamar’s track on Spotify through pay-to-play schemes, bots, and other tactics. Drake claims that UMG went beyond standard practices by using unlawful methods, including offering financial incentives for streaming the song without public disclosure. The label is also accused of removing copyright restrictions to allow content creators to use the song in their videos and using bots to boost its popularity.
UMG has denied these allegations, calling them “untrue” and “illogical,” citing their significant investment in Drake’s music. The lawsuit states that the promotion of the song led to real-world consequences for Drake, including a series of dangerous incidents at his Toronto home shortly after the song’s release.
Drake attempted to resolve the matter privately, but UMG allegedly refused to assist and warned him of potential humiliation if he pursued legal action. The lawsuit suggests UMG’s actions were motivated by financial gain, as Drake’s contract was nearing its end, and devaluing his brand could give UMG leverage in contract negotiations.
Drake’s legal team emphasizes that the lawsuit is not against Kendrick Lamar but aims to hold UMG accountable for promoting false and defamatory allegations. They argue that UMG prioritized profits over the safety and well-being of its artists, using its influence to spread damaging narratives.