Drake Files Federal Defamation Suit Against UMG, Accuses Label Of Pushing ‘False & Malicious’ Narrative w/ Kendrick Lamar’s ‘Not Like Us’

Drake Files Federal Defamation Suit Against UMG, Accuses Label Of Pushing ‘False & Malicious’ Narrative w/ Kendrick Lamar’s ‘Not Like Us’

Just as it seemed Drake might be stepping back from his battle with UMG, the rap star has taken things up a notch by filing a federal defamation lawsuit against his record label.

According to TMZ, Drake filed the suit earlier today (Jan. 15) in a New York City court, accusing UMG of spreading harmful falsehoods about him, including promoting claims made in Kendrick Lamar’s hit song, “Not Like Us.”

Kendrick Lamar

In the complaint, the Toronto native alleges that UMG knowingly pushed “false and malicious” narratives that have damaged his reputation and career. He claims the label monetized the controversy for financial gain and sought to devalue his brand to gain leverage in future contract negotiations. Drake’s previous deal with UMG, reportedly worth $400 million, may have played a role in the escalating tensions.

Drake states that UMG amplified “inflammatory and shocking allegations” labeling him a pedophile, despite knowing the claims were false. He also accuses the label of manipulating streaming data and engaging in “pay-for-play” schemes to boost the song’s reach, including efforts to secure Kendrick Lamar a Super Bowl Halftime Show performance.

 

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The lawsuit focuses solely on UMG, not Kendrick Lamar, and coincides with Drake dropping a separate legal petition against UMG and Spotify. That petition alleged the companies conspired to inflate “Not Like Us” rankings to tarnish his brand.

As of now, UMG has not responded publicly or in court to Drake’s latest suit.

What do you think—will Drake succeed in his case against UMG? 

[VIA]