Drake to Appeal Dismissal of Lawsuit against Universal Music Group Over Kendrick lamar Diss Track
Drake is appealing a federal judge’s recent decision to dismiss his lawsuit against Universal Music Group (UMG), continuing a legal battle stemming from Kendrick Lamar’s diss track, “Not Like Us.” A notice of appeal was filed today, October 29, in a New York federal court, signaling Drake’s intent to challenge the ruling.
The lawsuit,initially filed in January,alleged that UMG actively promoted “Not Like Us,” which Drake believed contained defamatory statements. UMG sought dismissal, arguing Drake “lost a rap battle that he provoked and in which he willingly participated.” Judge Jeannette A. Vargas agreed, stating the context of a “heated rap battle” wouldn’t lead a reasonable listener to believe the lyrics presented verifiable facts.
Drake’s legal team is now seeking a review of that decision by the court of Appeals. “This confirms our intent to appeal, and we look forward to the Court of Appeals reviewing that filing in the coming weeks,” a spokesperson for Drake told Pitchfork. Representatives for Universal Music Group have not yet responded to requests for comment.
The dispute centers on the lyrical content of “Not Like Us,” a widely circulated diss track in a highly publicized feud between Drake and Kendrick Lamar. Drake claimed UMG intentionally amplified the song’s reach, contributing to alleged damage to his reputation. The outcome of the appeal could set a precedent for how legal disputes are handled within the context of rap battles and artistic expression.
