Drake Accuses UMG and Spotify of Inflating Kendrick Lamar’s Diss Track

Late last month, Drake initiated legal action against Universal Music Group (UMG) over Kendrick Lamar’s controversial diss track, “Not Like Us.” In a pre-action petition, the Canadian rapper accused UMG and Spotify of employing unethical tactics—including bots, payola, and other manipulative methods—to artificially boost the track’s popularity. Additionally, Drake alleged defamation, claiming UMG failed to prevent the release of a song in which Kendrick accuses him of being a sexual predator.

“UMG did not rely on chance, or even ordinary business practices,” the petition reads. “It instead launched a campaign to manipulate and saturate the streaming services and airwaves.” According to reports from Kurrco, a court hearing for the case has been scheduled for December 20. While the legal proceedings are yet to unfold, the case has sparked widespread debate online. Social media users have voiced varying opinions, with some suggesting Drake could expose alleged corruption in the music industry, while others argue the move portrays him as envious of Kendrick’s success.

Mixed Reactions to Drake’s Legal Move

If Drake wins, he loses …

— sma11world (@Sma11world1) December 6, 2024

Because drakes lawyers already informed the NFL they will sue if they allow Kendrick to perform not like us

— Shaka🇨🇻🇵🇹 (@Pirolas03) December 6, 2024

During a recent episode of his Apple Music show, Ebro shared his skepticism about Drake’s chances in court. “I’ve worked in the radio business and the media for 30 years,” Ebro said. “There are always allegations of payola. I’ve been investigated, and people I’ve worked with have been investigated, but nothing ever comes to fruition.”

On the other hand, Funkmaster Flex voiced strong support for Drake on X (formerly Twitter). “DRAKE IS 100% RIGHT!” he wrote emphatically. “NATIONAL PLAY! (PER SONG) DRAKE DONT $ FOR PLAY! POP/CHR RADIO: $350K. URBAN RADIO: $250K. MIXSHOW: $100K. LOCAL MIXSHOW DIRECTOR: $40K. LOCAL DJ: $3K-5K PER SONG! (DJS ON THE RADIO 5 DAYS A WEEK). THIS IS WHY INDEPENDENT ARTISTS DON’T RISE TO THE TOP! ALL YOU ARTISTS KNOW I AIN’T NEVER TAKE A DIME FROM YOU, YOUR MANAGER, OR YOUR LABELS!”

The differing perspectives highlight the complex nature of the allegations, as well as the longstanding debates over fairness and transparency in the music industry. With the December 20 hearing fast approaching, the case promises to shed light on industry practices and may have significant implications for both artists and record labels.