Drake's defamation lawsuit against UMG thrown out by judge

In New York, a federal judge dismissed a defamation lawsuit filed by Drake against Universal Music Group. The case arose from allegations in Kendrick Lamar’s diss track, 'Not Like Us,' which accused Drake of having inappropriate relations with minors. Judge Jeannette Vargas ruled that the language used in the song, characterized by hyperbole and opinion, did not constitute factual statements. She noted that the lawsuit came about amidst a heated rivalry between the two artists, who have exchanged multiple diss tracks over the years. The judge observed that while the allegations in the song were serious, the context of a rap battle meant a reasonable listener would not interpret the lyrics as definitive facts. UMG welcomed the dismissal, asserting that the lawsuit undermined artistic expression and conflicted with the rights of artists to engage in creative contests. Drake's team expressed intentions to appeal the ruling, seeking a reevaluation of the court's decision. Drake claimed that UMG released and promoted 'Not Like Us' with knowledge of its damaging implications, which he believed tarnished his reputation and impacted his brand. The lawsuit also highlighted broader concerns of artists' safety and the consequences of UMG prioritizing profit over their well-being. The legal dispute is emblematic of the contentious nature of modern rap battles, where provocative lyrics have become a hallmark of the genre. The feud between both rappers escalated significantly in recent years, culminating in multiple tracks filled with accusations and counter-accusations. The release of 'Not Like Us' in May 2024 marked a peak in their rivalry, leading to significant media attention and public discourse regarding the lyrics and their implications. As UMG continues to support both artists, the outcome of the appeal could have lasting effects on industry practices regarding artist representation and defamation claims in artistic works.