Drake sues universal music group over controversial Kendrick Lamar song allegations

Canadian rapper Drake has filed a federal lawsuit against his record label, Universal Music Group (UMG), accusing the company of prioritizing profit over his reputation and safety. Filed Wednesday in the Southern District of New York, the lawsuit alleges "corporate greed" in UMG's promotion of Kendrick Lamar's controversial song "Not Like Us," which contains harmful claims that Drake is a "certified pedophile." Drake has denied Lamar's allegations and claims the song has caused "tangible harm," including incidents involving violence and threats referencing his 7-year-old son, Adonis. According to the lawsuit, Drake informed UMG about these repercussions but alleges the label "refused to take action." Drake's attorneys claim UMG deliberately targeted the rapper, turning him into a "pariah" to profit from the controversy. Despite a professional relationship spanning more than a decade, the lawsuit accuses UMG of exploiting and monetizing the diss track while ignoring Drake's concerns. The filing emphasizes that the lawsuit is "not about the artist who created 'Not Like Us,'" but rather about UMG's decision to publish and promote the song. Drake alleges that the turmoil forced him to withdraw his son from school and relocate his family during the summer for their safety. T his lawsuit follows Drake’s decision to drop an earlier legal complaint against UMG and Spotify. That case alleged a "scheme" to ensure Lamar's "Not Like Us" gained traction on streaming platforms and radio, breaking Spotify records and reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 twice. Drake’s team initially sought pre-action discovery to obtain evidence against UMG and Spotify but withdrew the request on Tuesday after discussions with both companies. Spotify did not oppose the withdrawal, while UMG had not filed a response. Drake and Kendrick Lamar's rivalry dates back to 2013 but escalated dramatically this spring, with both artists trading accusations in their music. In November, Drake filed a petition claiming UMG used deceptive tactics to inflate the popularity of "Not Like Us," accusing the label of bribery and false advertising. Universal Music Group dismissed the claims, stating in November: "The suggestion that UMG would undermine any of its artists is offensive and untrue. We uphold the highest ethical standards in our marketing and promotional campaigns." Spotify declined to comment on the matter. The lawsuit highlights the complex dynamics between artists and their record labels, raising questions about the lengths companies may go to protect—or exploit—their talent