UMG Seeks Dismissal of Drake’s Defamation Lawsuit Over “Not Like Us”
Drake isn’t letting his legal battle slow him down. Recently, he appeared to tease a new music video for “$ome $exy $ongs 4 U,” keeping his momentum going despite ongoing courtroom drama.
The feud between Kendrick Lamar and Drake has evolved significantly over the past year, with shifting opinions and intense debates among fans. However, in court, Universal Music Group (UMG) aims to cut through the noise. The company has filed a motion to dismiss Drake’s defamation lawsuit regarding “Not Like Us,” arguing that his claims of manipulation and artificial boosting lack merit. UMG also rejected the notion that the track itself is defamatory, citing the long-standing tradition of diss tracks, which often rely on hyperbole, opinion, and exaggerated insults.
While OVO supporters have challenged UMG’s defense, others argue that Drake’s case has inconsistencies. Now, the decision lies with the court: will the lawsuit move forward, or will it be dismissed? Meghann Cuniff reports below.
Drake’s Battle With iHeartMedia
“Instead of accepting the loss like the unbothered rap artist he often claims to be, he has sued his own record label in a misguided attempt to salve his wounds.”
UMG has moved to dismiss Drake’s lawsuit over Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us.” pic.twitter.com/UOwv6DVNlo
— Meghann Cuniff (@meghanncuniff) March 17, 2025
A key development in this legal battle is Drake’s decision to drop his accusations against iHeartMedia. Initially, he alleged that UMG engaged in illegal payola practices, secretly paying the radio giant to increase airplay of “Not Like Us” and amplify its alleged defamatory nature. However, after receiving documents proving iHeartMedia’s non-involvement, Drake withdrew his petition.
“In exchange for documents that showed iHeart did nothing wrong, Drake agreed to drop his petition. No payments were made – by either one of us,” an iHeart representative told Rolling Stone. Court documents confirmed an “amicable resolution” between the two parties.
Drake’s team expressed satisfaction with the resolution but refrained from further comment. Meanwhile, separate petitions in New York and Texas continue as he seeks additional evidence for his case. Regardless of where one stands in the debate, a resolution to this legal dispute may be on the horizon.
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