Drake has officially sued Universal Music Group for defamation related to Kendrick Lamar’s track “Not Like Us,” claiming false allegations against him.
The lawsuit was filed in Manhattan federal court. Drake says UMG is spreading false claims, calling him a “certified pedophile.” That’s a serious accusation!
Drake’s team argues that UMG knew these claims were untrue but chose to promote the song anyway for profit. They’re not going after Kendrick directly, just UMG for pushing the track.
Drake has been with UMG since 2009, so he feels they should know better. He insists he’s not a pedophile and has never done anything to warrant such a label.
The lawsuit also links the song to some troubling incidents at his Toronto home, which is on the cover of the single. Just days after the song dropped, there were break-in attempts and a shooting at his place.
Drake’s lawyers think these events are too coincidental. They claim UMG created a viral hit that falsely accuses him and even calls for violence against him.
There’s also a financial angle. Drake’s contract is up for renegotiation in 2025, and he suspects UMG might want to sabotage his career. UMG hasn’t responded to the lawsuit yet but has denied any wrongdoing before.
Back in November, Drake warned UMG that legal action was coming. He filed some petitions in New York and Texas to keep any relevant info safe. He dropped the New York case just before this federal lawsuit. The Texas case is still pending, with a hearing coming up soon.
