Drake Files Two Lawsuits Against UMG Over ‘Not Like Us’ Song Manipulation

Drake is making headlines after leveling serious accusations against Universal Music Group (UMG) and Spotify. The Toronto artist, through his company Frozen Moments LLC, claims the two industry powerhouses engaged in unethical tactics to boost Kendrick Lamar’s diss track, “Not Like Us,” to the top of the charts.

The “Not Like Us” track, which dropped on May 4, quickly became a viral hit, topping the Billboard Hot 100 and receiving critical acclaim. However, Drake claims that the song’s success wasn’t organic but a result of bots, payola, and other questionable methods allegedly orchestrated by UMG. The accusations are laid out in a legal filing made earlier this week in a Manhattan court, as reported by Billboard.

What Is Going On Between Drake and UMG?

Drake’s filing is not a formal lawsuit but a pre-action petition, a legal step often used to gather evidence before potentially pursuing further action. According to Drake’s legal team, UMG allegedly launched an “illegal scheme” to promote Kendrick Lamar’s diss track by manipulating streaming numbers and securing radio play through unethical means.

“UMG did not rely on chance or normal business practices,” Drake’s lawyers argue. “Instead, they orchestrated a campaign to dominate the streaming platforms and airwaves, violating both the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act and laws against deceptive business practices and false advertising.”

The Diss Track at the Center of the Feud

Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” is at the heart of the controversy. The track includes harsh accusations against Drake, referencing allegations of misconduct. While the song struck a chord with fans and critics alike, Drake has openly dismissed its impact. During a livestream with popular streamer xQc, he addressed the track, saying, “I’m here, as you can see, fully intact. Mind, body, and soul. You need facts to take me out—fairy tales won’t do it.”

Drake’s legal filings, however, suggest he is taking the diss track’s allegations seriously. He claims UMG not only promoted the song but also stood to profit from the harm it caused to his reputation.

The finale of Kendrick Lamar " The Pop Out" concert" !! 🙌🏽 pic.twitter.com/6BrzmCT1qp

— Dilemaradio Hip-Hop Music (@DilemaRadio) June 21, 2024

A Second Filing Against UMG

Later the same day, Drake filed a second pre-action petition, this time in Texas. The new filing accuses UMG of defamation, arguing that the company could have edited or refused to distribute “Not Like Us” but chose not to.

“UMG designed, financed, and executed a plan to turn ‘Not Like Us’ into a viral mega-hit,” Drake’s lawyers claim. “Their intent was to use the spectacle of harm to Drake to drive consumer hysteria and massive revenues.”

Drake also alleges UMG paid iHeartRadio as part of a pay-to-play scheme, securing extensive radio promotion for the song. Notably, Kendrick Lamar himself is not named in either of the filings and is not directly accused of wrongdoing.

Rapsody speaks pic.twitter.com/7NX9OxO3yb

— kendrick Lyrics (@WordFromKdot) November 26, 2024

UMG Responds to Drake’s Claims

UMG has denied Drake’s allegations, calling them “offensive and untrue.” In a statement released Monday night, the company said:

“The suggestion that UMG would do anything to undermine any of its artists is offensive and untrue. We employ the highest ethical practices in our marketing and promotional campaigns. No amount of contrived and absurd legal arguments in this pre-action submission can mask the fact that fans choose the music they want to hear.”

What’s Next in the Drake vs. UMG Drama?

As of now, Drake’s filings are only the beginning. Whether these pre-action petitions will escalate into formal lawsuits remains to be seen. The music industry is watching closely, as this case could have major implications for how streaming platforms and labels promote songs.

Meanwhile, Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” continues to dominate charts and is in the running for multiple Grammy Awards. With Drake refusing to back down and UMG standing firm, this battle is far from over.

For fans, this drama is more than just a feud—it’s a glimpse into the high-stakes world of the music industry. Stay tuned as we keep you updated on what is going on with Drake, Kendrick Lamar, and UMG.