Universal Music Group (UMG) has firmly denied allegations in a defamation lawsuit filed by Drake over Kendrick Lamar’s diss track Not Like Us, which accuses the Canadian rapper of pedophilia.
The lawsuit, filed on January 15, 2025, claims that UMG knowingly promoted Lamar’s track despite its false allegations, putting Drake’s safety and reputation at risk. The case has stirred widespread attention, drawing sharp lines between artistic freedom and personal accountability.
In a strong statement issued on January 17, UMG dismissed Drake’s claims as baseless and illogical. A company spokesperson highlighted UMG’s long-standing partnership with Drake, emphasizing their significant investments in his career.
“We have invested massively in his music, and our employees have worked tirelessly to help him achieve historic commercial and financial success,” the statement read. “The notion that we would seek to harm the reputation of any artist, let alone Drake, is illogical.” The company’s denial suggests that the lawsuit misrepresents their role in the track’s promotion.
UMG also framed Drake’s lawsuit as an attack on creative freedom, defending Lamar’s diss track as part of the longstanding tradition of rap battles. According to the label, Drake’s legal action is an attempt to weaponize the legal system to silence Lamar’s artistic expression.
“We have not and do not engage in defamation—against any individual,” the statement continued. The company reaffirmed its commitment to fostering an environment where artists can freely express themselves, even within the competitive dynamics of the music industry.
The lawsuit alleges that UMG’s promotion of Not Like Us was a calculated move to undermine Drake’s reputation as part of an effort to gain leverage in ongoing contract negotiations.
Drake’s deal with UMG is reportedly nearing its end, and the legal filing suggests that the label’s actions were intended to weaken his bargaining position. UMG has categorically denied these claims, asserting that their relationship with Drake has always been built on mutual respect and collaboration.
As the legal battle unfolds, UMG has made it clear that it intends to defend itself vigorously. The company argues that the lawsuit’s focus on Lamar’s diss track distracts from the realities of rap culture, where lyrical feuds and diss tracks are not uncommon.
By positioning itself as a protector of creative rights, UMG seeks to maintain its credibility in the music industry while addressing Drake’s concerns through the appropriate legal channels.
The escalating conflict between Drake, Kendrick Lamar, and their shared label has captivated fans and industry insiders alike. With the lawsuit adding a new dimension to the longstanding rivalry between two of rap’s biggest stars, the case promises to have far-reaching implications for both artistic freedom and label-artist relationships.
As the story develops, all eyes remain on the next moves of the parties involved and the potential fallout within the music world.
