Rapper Drake is suing Universal Music Group and himself over the release of Kendrick Lamar’s diss track “Not Like Us.” The lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York on January 15.
According to court documents, Universal Music Group approved and promoted a song that falsely accuses Drake of being a pedophile and calls for violent retribution against him. The suit claims that the label “repeatedly defamed” Drake and exploited his work by releasing the song.
Drake’s real name is Aubrey Drake Graham, and he alleges that Lamar’s song features lyrics that are “cleverly dangerous” and includes a line that says “Say, Drake, I hear you like ’em young.” The suit also claims that the cover art and music video for “Not Like Us” featured Drake’s home in Toronto with labels similar to those used by law enforcement to pinpoint sex offenders.
Drake denies the allegations, stating that he is not a pedophile and has never engaged in any acts that would require him to be on neighborhood watch. Universal Music Group has responded to the filing, saying that the claims are untrue and that they have invested heavily in Drake’s music career.
The dispute began when Drake accused Universal Music Group of launching a campaign to manipulate and saturate streaming services with Lamar’s song. The label responded by saying that they employ high ethical practices in their marketing campaigns.
Drake has since withdrawn his petition to withdraw the lawsuit, indicating that he will continue to pursue his federal suit against Universal Music Group.
Source: https://people.com/drake-sues-own-record-label-for-alleged-defamation-over-kendrick-lamar-diss-track-not-like-us-8775091