Canadian rapper Drake files a lawsuit against Universal Music Group (UMG), accusing the record label of defamation and harassment. The lawsuit centers on Kendrick Lamar’s hit song Not Like Us, which includes a controversial line that Drake alleges falsely accuses him of being a pedophile.
Drake claims UMG approved and promoted the song despite being aware of its potentially defamatory content. The lawsuit alleges that the song’s lyrics were “intended to convey the specific, unmistakable, and false allegation” that he is a criminal pedophile. According to Drake, this has caused significant harm to his reputation and personal safety.
The legal complaint states that Drake alerted Universal to the potential dangers posed by the song’s release, including threats and harassment directed at him and his family. The rapper says the fallout has forced him to take drastic measures, such as removing his son from school for safety concerns.
Drake’s legal team argues that UMG bears responsibility for allowing the song to perpetuate harmful and baseless claims, stating the label’s promotional efforts amounted to a malicious campaign to defame him. The lawsuit seeks damages and an injunction to prevent further distribution or promotion of the song.
Kendrick Lamar has not issued a public statement regarding the lawsuit, but industry insiders suggest that the legal battle may highlight ongoing tensions between the two artists, who have often been portrayed as rivals in the rap world. Universal Music Group has also declined to comment on the matter, citing pending litigation.
The lawsuit raises broader questions about artistic freedom and accountability in the music industry, particularly when it comes to lyrics that can have real-world consequences. Drake’s fans and industry observers are closely watching the case, which could set a precedent for how record labels handle potentially defamatory content in their releases.
