UMG Seeks to Dismiss Drakes Amended Not Like Us Defamation Lawsuit

Published: Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 4:19 pm

UMG Fights Back: Seeks Dismissal of Drake's "Not Like Us" Defamation Lawsuit

Universal Music Group (UMG) is firing back in the ongoing legal battle with Drake over Kendrick Lamar's hit diss track, "Not Like Us." In a motion filed late Wednesday, UMG is seeking to dismiss Drake's amended defamation lawsuit, arguing that the rapper's claims are simply an attempt to salvage his reputation after losing the highly publicized rap battle.

The amended complaint, filed weeks after Drake initially sued UMG, centered on Lamar's Super Bowl performance and the omission of the word "pedophile" from "Not Like Us." Drake's legal team alleged that these actions affirmed the song's defamatory nature. However, UMG's motion calls these claims "astonishing" and accuses Drake of attacking Lamar's success rather than focusing on the lyrics themselves.

UMG's dismissal motion highlights Drake's own history of releasing diss tracks, suggesting hypocrisy in his current legal action. The company argues that the art form of rap thrives on provocative insults and that allowing Drake's suit to proceed would stifle creative expression. They also point out Drake's use of UMG's platform to promote his own tracks that similarly targeted Lamar.

The lawsuit, initially filed in January, accused UMG of profiting from damaging Drake's reputation by publishing and promoting "Not Like Us," despite knowing the allegations were false. The song, a massive hit, has led to harassment of Drake, according to his team. Drake's legal team had previously been granted permission to seek documents related to Lamar's record deal and incentive plans.

UMG maintains its commitment to supporting all its artists' creative expression, including Drake's, while simultaneously defending its position in this legal dispute.

BNN's Perspective: This case highlights the complex relationship between artistic expression, commercial interests, and legal boundaries. While Drake's frustration is understandable, UMG's argument about the nature of diss tracks and the potential chilling effect on rap music has merit. Finding a balance between protecting artists' reputations and allowing for creative freedom is crucial.

Keywords: UMG, Drake, Kendrick Lamar, Not Like Us, defamation lawsuit, dismissal, rap battle, diss track, legal, music, Universal Music Group, lawsuit, amended complaint, creative expression, harassment, record deal, hip-hop, rap

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