Universal Music Group (UMG) has responded to Drake’s defamation lawsuit regarding Kendrick Lamar’s diss track “Not Like Us.” In a motion filed on March 17, UMG’s lawyers dismissed Drake’s claims, arguing that the case was merely an attempt by him to save face after losing a rap battle.
They stated, “Drake, a hugely successful artist, participated in this rap feud. Instead of accepting his defeat, he has chosen to sue his own label, showing he cannot handle the embarrassment.” The motion highlights that Drake himself has thrown harsh insults during their back-and-forth, including serious allegations against Lamar.
UMG pointed out that Drake has used the same platform to attack Lamar in his own songs. “Now, after being on the losing side, he claims that ‘Not Like Us’ is defamatory. We believe it’s not.”
Drake’s attorney, Michael J. Gottlieb, countered this in a statement to Billboard, saying UMG was trying to distract everyone from accountability. Gottlieb argued that UMG is profiting from the chaos, while Drake is standing up against dangerous misinformation, which has reportedly contributed to real-world violence.
“Not Like Us” premiered in May and became a significant part of the ongoing feud between the two stars. Lamar’s song included a serious accusation against Drake, calling him a “certified pedophile,” and even featured prominently in Lamar’s Super Bowl halftime show. This controversy has sparked widespread discussion on social media, with fans divided over both artists’ actions and lyrics.
In January, Drake sued UMG, claiming the company propelled the track’s popularity, thus creating a false narrative around him. This lawsuit does not name Lamar as a defendant but alleges that UMG spread harmful misinformation.
In its recent filing, UMG asserts that Lamar’s lyrics are protected speech under the First Amendment. They argue that diss tracks, which often contain exaggerated insults, are a recognized part of hip-hop culture. UMG claims that allowing Drake’s suit to move forward could stifle this artistic form.
Furthermore, UMG referenced an important 2022 petition co-signed by Drake, which criticized the use of rap lyrics in criminal trials as factual evidence. This highlights the evolving conversation around how rap music is perceived and treated legally. UMG’s lawyers wrote, “When it comes to rap, the final work reflects the artist’s vision. Drake’s complaint serves only to defend his bruised ego from a loss in a rap battle.”
Drake’s lawyers are expected to file a response to UMG’s motion soon, and a judge will decide on the matter in the coming months. If the motion is denied, the case will continue, potentially leading to a trial that could further explore the intersection of music, artistry, and legal boundaries in the controversial realm of diss tracks.
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