In a recent legal development, Universal Music Group (UMG) has filed a motion to dismiss the defamation lawsuit initiated by Canadian rapper Drake concerning Kendrick Lamar's diss track, "Not Like Us." UMG's motion, submitted on March 17, 2025, characterizes Drake's lawsuit as a "misguided attempt" to recover from a rap battle he allegedly instigated but ultimately lost.
Background of the Feud
The public feud between Drake and Kendrick Lamar escalated in March 2024, with both artists releasing multiple diss tracks targeting each other. Lamar's "Not Like Us," released on May 4, 2024, includes controversial lyrics accusing Drake of inappropriate behavior. The track achieved significant commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and winning Grammy Awards for Record of the Year, Best Music Video, and Song of the Year.
UMG's Legal Arguments
In their motion, UMG asserts that diss tracks are a fundamental aspect of rap culture, characterized by exaggerated insults and rhetorical hyperbole, which are not intended to be interpreted as factual statements. They argue that allowing Drake's lawsuit to proceed could set a precedent that might suppress artistic expression within the genre. UMG's filing states, "Diss tracks are a popular and celebrated art form centered around outrageous insults, and they would be severely chilled if Drake’s suit were permitted to proceed."
Furthermore, UMG highlights Drake's active participation in the feud, noting that he has previously used the label's platform to release tracks containing incendiary remarks about Lamar. The motion references instances where Drake accused Lamar of domestic abuse and questioned the paternity of Lamar's child. UMG contends that Drake's current claims are inconsistent with his prior stance against treating rap lyrics as literal statements, citing his past support for petitions opposing the use of artistic expression as evidence in legal proceedings.
Drake's Position
Drake's lawsuit alleges that UMG's promotion and distribution of "Not Like Us" propagated false and harmful narratives about him, leading to reputational damage and personal distress. His legal team argues that UMG's actions went beyond standard promotional practices, effectively endorsing and amplifying defamatory content. Drake's attorney, Michael J. Gottlieb, criticized UMG's motion as a tactic to avoid accountability, stating, "UMG wants to pretend that this is about a rap battle in order to distract its shareholders, artists, and the public from a simple truth: A greedy company is finally being held responsible for profiting from dangerous misinformation that has already resulted in multiple acts of violence."
Implications for Artistic Expression
This legal confrontation underscores the complex interplay between artistic freedom and personal reputation within the music industry. Diss tracks have long been a staple in rap culture, serving as a medium for artists to assert dominance and address grievances. However, the boundaries of this art form are being tested as the content becomes more provocative and the platforms for distribution more expansive.
The outcome of this case could have significant implications for how lyrical content is perceived legally and commercially. A ruling in favor of Drake might encourage artists to pursue legal action over offensive content, potentially stifling creativity and altering the landscape of musical expression. Conversely, dismissing the lawsuit could reinforce the notion that artistic works, particularly within rap, are protected forms of speech, even when they contain harsh or unfounded allegations.
Conclusion
As the court reviews UMG's motion to dismiss, the music industry watches closely, recognizing that the decision may influence future interactions between artistic expression and legal accountability. The case serves as a pivotal moment in defining the limits of creative freedom and the responsibilities of record labels in managing and promoting potentially defamatory content.
Keywords: Drake defamation lawsuit, Universal Music Group, Kendrick Lamar, 'Not Like Us', rap battle, diss track culture, First Amendment, rhetorical hyperbole
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