Drake is facing major pushback from his own label, Universal Music Group (UMG), after filing a lawsuit over Kendrick Lamar’s explosive diss track, Not Like Us. According to UMG, Drake’s legal action is nothing more than an attempt to rewrite history after losing one of the most intense rap battles in recent memory.
Drake vs. Kendrick: A Battle That Shook Hip-Hop
The rap feud between Drake and Kendrick Lamar escalated into a full-fledged lyrical war, with both artists dropping a series of scathing diss tracks. UMG, in newly filed federal court documents, made it clear that Drake was an active participant in the battle and even pushed for its continuation. The label pointed out that Drake urged Lamar to respond faster by releasing additional diss tracks, adding fuel to the fire.
“Drake encouraged the feud,” UMG stated in legal filings obtained by TMZ Hip Hop. “For example, when he felt that Lamar was taking too long to respond, Drake released a second recording in which he goaded Lamar to continue the public rap battle.”
This revelation directly contradicts Drake’s claim that he was unfairly targeted by the release of Not Like Us. The lawsuit alleges that UMG allowed the song’s release despite knowing that its lyrics—particularly the “certified pedophile” line—were defamatory and false.
UMG Calls Out Drake’s Hypocrisy
UMG’s response doesn’t hold back. The label highlights that both artists released a combined total of nine diss tracks filled with personal attacks and incendiary accusations. UMG argues that Drake had no problem using the company’s platform to promote his own diss records against Lamar, which contained equally controversial claims.
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Among the accusations in Drake’s lyrics were suggestions that Lamar was a domestic abuser and that Kendrick’s business partner was the real father of his child. UMG claims that the rapper is only pursuing legal action because he ultimately lost the rap battle.
“Drake has been pleased to use UMG’s platform to promote tracks leveling similarly incendiary attacks at Lamar,” the label stated. “His lawsuit disregards the other diss tracks and the conventions of the diss track genre, ignoring the broader context of the dispute.”
In other words, UMG is making it clear: if Drake was willing to play the game, he can’t complain now that he lost.
The Fallout: Who Really Won?
While hip-hop beefs are nothing new, the intensity of this battle has drawn widespread attention from fans and industry insiders alike. UMG’s filings included a particularly brutal statement that might sting the most for Drake: “Multiple commentators declared Lamar to be the ‘winner’ of the battle.”
This assertion aligns with public sentiment, as many rap fans and critics have credited Kendrick with delivering the most devastating blows in their lyrical war. Not Like Us became an instant viral hit, celebrated for its hard-hitting delivery and clever wordplay. Meanwhile, Drake’s responses, while aggressive, didn’t seem to resonate as powerfully with audiences.
Legal Implications: Can Drake’s Lawsuit Survive?
UMG is now urging the court to dismiss the lawsuit entirely, arguing that Not Like Us cannot be considered defamatory given the context in which it was released. Diss tracks have long been a staple of hip-hop, and courts have historically viewed them as a form of artistic expression rather than actionable defamation.
Legal experts suggest that Drake may face an uphill battle in proving that the lyrics in question constitute actual defamation. Since rap battles often include exaggerated claims and hyperbolic insults, courts may be reluctant to take them at face value.
What’s Next for Drake and Kendrick?
Despite the legal drama, both Drake and Kendrick remain two of the biggest forces in hip-hop. While the feud has certainly shaken the industry, it has also reinforced the competitive nature of rap music—a genre where lyrical battles have long played a crucial role in shaping careers and cementing legacies.
Whether Drake will be able to move past this loss and reclaim his dominance remains to be seen. But if UMG’s latest response is any indication, the industry giant has no sympathy for the rapper’s complaints.
Final Thoughts
Drake’s attempt to legally challenge Not Like Us has only brought more scrutiny to his rap battle defeat. With UMG standing firm in its stance, it appears the rapper may need to accept the outcome and move forward. One thing is certain: this feud has left an indelible mark on hip-hop, proving once again that when it comes to rap battles, only the strongest lyrics survive.
