Drake vs. Universal Music Group: A Lawsuit That Could Change the Industry

In a dramatic legal battle, global music icon Drake has taken Universal Music Group (UMG) to court, accusing the label of deliberately promoting Kendrick Lamar’s diss track Not Like Us to tarnish his reputation.

The lawsuit has sparked a heated debate within the music industry, raising questions about artistic expression, corporate influence, and the darker side of the rap game.

The Basis of Drake’s Lawsuit

Drake’s lawsuit alleges that UMG strategically allowed Not Like Us to spread unchecked, leveraging its massive success to financially benefit from the controversy.

He claims that UMG failed to enforce copyright claims against content creators, such as Kai Cenat and RDC Gaming, who monetized reaction videos to the song.

This alleged lack of action, Drake argues, contributed to the dissemination of defamatory content about him, ultimately endangering his safety and personal life.

According to Drake, the viral nature of Not Like Us led to real-world consequences. He asserts that his home was targeted by trespassers, and his security guard was shot just a day after the song’s release.

His legal team contends that UMG’s actions—or lack thereof—were financially motivated, as they sought to boost Kendrick Lamar’s visibility and record sales at Drake’s expense.

The Industry Power Struggle

One of the most explosive claims in the lawsuit is that Kendrick Lamar’s deal with UMG played a role in the alleged conspiracy.

Drake argues that Kendrick initially signed a short-term deal with UMG in 2022, during which he tested the label’s ability to elevate him to the same level as Drake.

The lawsuit suggests that UMG orchestrated the high-profile rap battle between the two artists to propel Kendrick’s career and secure a longer-term contract.

In December 2024, Kendrick reportedly signed a more extensive deal with UMG, supporting Drake’s assertion that the label actively worked to boost Lamar’s stature at his expense.

If proven in court, these allegations could expose a calculated effort by a major record label to manipulate artists for corporate gain.

UMG’s Counterattack

UMG has not taken these accusations lightly. In a forceful response, the label dismissed Drake’s claims as “illogical” and insisted that it has always supported his career.

UMG emphasized that it has heavily invested in Drake’s success over the years and accused him of using the lawsuit to mask his disappointment over losing the rap battle to Kendrick.

The label also turned the tables, alleging that Drake himself has used artificial means, such as bot-generated streaming numbers, to inflate his music’s popularity—a tactic he previously accused Kendrick of employing.

Furthermore, UMG hinted that it possesses damaging evidence regarding Drake’s past behavior, including questionable interactions and business dealings, which could further complicate his legal battle.

A Larger Game at Play?

Beyond the feud between two rap giants, the lawsuit has broader implications for the music industry.

Drake’s legal action suggests that major record labels hold immense power in shaping public perception and manipulating artist careers for financial gain.

His allegations highlight the challenges that even top-tier artists face when negotiating contracts and maintaining control over their brand.

Drake’s current deal with UMG, reportedly worth $400 million, is nearing its expiration.

The lawsuit raises speculation that UMG’s alleged tactics were an attempt to undervalue his brand, making it easier to renegotiate a more favorable contract for the label.

Drake, on the other hand, is rumored to be seeking a $600 million deal—an amount that UMG may be unwilling to pay.

What’s Next?

As the legal battle intensifies, the music industry watches closely. If Drake’s allegations hold up in court, the case could set a precedent for how record labels handle artist disputes and promotional strategies.

If UMG successfully defends itself, it could reinforce the notion that rap battles and diss tracks, no matter how personal, are simply part of the game.

Regardless of the outcome, one thing is certain: this lawsuit is more than just a personal feud. It’s a high-stakes battle that could reshape the dynamics of power in the music industry, with repercussions that extend far beyond Drake and Kendrick Lamar.