Drake is intensifying his legal battle against Universal Music Group (UMG) regarding the controversial diss track “Not Like Us.” After an earlier defamation lawsuit was dismissed, the Canadian artist’s legal team has filed a civil appeal in the U.S. Court of Appeals, aiming to overturn the initial ruling.
According to a report from AllHipHop, Drake’s attorneys assert that UMG “knowingly published and promoted… unambiguous and false factual allegations” of pedophilia in the song. The appeal statement highlights not only the lyrics but also the record’s artwork, marketing, and accompanying music video. The legal team plans to present further arguments during the appellate court proceedings.
Drake’s filing claims that UMG acted with “malicious intent” in an effort to “prove its worth” to Kendrick Lamar through a short-term exclusive contract. This position contrasts with Drake’s assertion that his own contract with UMG lapsed without renegotiation. His legal representatives argue that UMG sought to promote defamatory content to achieve financial gain.
The appeal also underscores the personal toll this dispute has taken on Drake. The filing mentions threats made against his home and loved ones, as well as his attempts to communicate these concerns to UMG, which allegedly failed to cease the promotion of “Not Like Us.” The previous lawsuit had also referenced the artist’s Grammy wins and his prominent Super Bowl halftime show performance.
Neither Kendrick Lamar nor UMG have publicly responded to the ongoing appeal. The situation remains tense, particularly as Kendrick has not directly addressed the feud, aside from a brief comment during the Super Bowl.
In a related development, Drake reportedly ended his long-term relationship with booking agent Brent Smith, who also represents Kendrick Lamar. Sources cited by Billboard suggest that the ongoing beef may have contributed to this split.
As both artists prepare for the upcoming Grammy Awards, they continue to dominate the music scene. Drake is nominated for Best Melodic Rap Performance, while Kendrick Lamar leads with nominations for Best Rap Album, Record of the Year, Album of the Year, and more. The outcome of this legal battle could significantly impact their careers and public images as they navigate this complex rivalry.
