The ongoing feud between hip-hop superstars Drake and Kendrick Lamar took a legal turn on Wednesday when Drake filed a lawsuit against Universal Music Group for defamation over Lamar's diss track "Not Like Us." The lawsuit, filed in federal court in New York City, alleges that UMG published and promoted the track despite it containing false pedophilia allegations against Drake and suggesting listeners should resort to vigilante justice.
The lawsuit claims that as a result of the track's release, intruders shot a security guard at Drake's Toronto home, leading to online hate and harassment, a hit to his reputation, and a decrease in his brand's value before his contract renegotiation with UMG. The lawsuit specifically targets UMG, stating that the music company knew the allegations were false and dangerous but decided to publish and exploit them anyway.
Additionally, the lawsuit alleges that UMG made large investments and used its connections to arrange for "Not Like Us" to be performed at next month's Super Bowl, where Lamar will be the halftime entertainment. Drake's lawyers are seeking a trial and undisclosed damages for the harm caused by the false allegations.
Representatives for Drake declined to comment, while representatives for UMG and Lamar did not immediately respond to requests for comment. UMG has previously denied similar allegations, stating that they employ the highest ethical practices in their marketing and promotional campaigns.
The ongoing feud between Drake and Lamar, two of hip-hop's biggest stars, began escalating last year after years of occasional collaborations and public jabs. The lawsuit filed by Drake's legal team aims to hold UMG accountable for knowingly promoting false and defamatory allegations against him. The outcome of this legal battle could have significant implications for the future of both artists and their relationship with the music company.