Drake has escalated his legal dispute against Universal Music Group (UMG) regarding Kendrick Lamar’s diss track “Not Like Us,” alleging defamation stemming from Lamar’s Super Bowl half-time performance in 2025. The track, which contained controversial lyrics aimed at Drake, became a major hit, winning Lamar multiple Grammy awards and reaching the top of music charts in the US and UK.
Initially suing UMG in January over the song, Drake claimed that the label facilitated the spread of false allegations about him being a criminal paedophile through the track. Subsequently, Drake’s legal team expanded the lawsuit, citing the Super Bowl performance as further solidifying public belief in the allegations, leading to increased threats against Drake and his family.
UMG denied the new allegations, asserting that Drake’s legal representatives were misguiding him in pursuing baseless legal actions. Despite this, Drake achieved a legal victory by gaining access to certain UMG documents for the case. Meanwhile, UMG warned that Drake himself would also be subject to discovery in the legal process.
The ongoing legal battle between Drake and UMG has not only sparked controversy within the music industry but has also raised questions about the impact of public perception on artists’ reputations. Additionally, Drake and Lamar’s rivalry extends beyond legal matters, as they compete for the top spot on the US singles chart, adding another layer of tension to their ongoing feud.