Drake Appeals Defamation Ruling in ‘Not Like Us’ Case
Drake has officially filed an appeal in his defamation case against Universal Music Group (UMG) concerning the promotion of Kendrick Lamar’s track “Not Like Us.” This notice of appeal was submitted on Wednesday morning, as Drake’s representatives confirmed their intention to challenge the District Court’s previous ruling. Details on the specifics of their arguments will be provided in a subsequent filing.
Background of the Case
The lawsuit, initially filed in January, alleged that UMG engaged in defamation by promoting “Not Like Us,” a significant hit amid the ongoing rivalry between Drake and Lamar. On October 9, the case was dismissed by District Judge Jeannette Vargas, who stated that the track’s context—being part of a rap battle—was essential in determining its impact on listeners.
Legal Arguments and Ruling Details
Judge Vargas highlighted that the statements within the song could be interpreted as opinions rather than defamatory statements. She noted, “Even apparent statements of fact may assume the character of statements of opinion…when made in public debate or heated labor dispute.”
Drake’s legal team expressed their disappointment with the ruling and immediately signaled their plans to appeal, expressing eagerness for the Court of Appeals to reassess the case in the coming weeks.
Timeline of Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| January 2023 | Drake files lawsuit against UMG over “Not Like Us.” |
| March 2023 | UMG files a motion to dismiss the case. |
| October 9, 2023 | Judge Vargas dismisses the case, citing the context of the song. |
| October 2023 | Drake files notice of appeal against the ruling. |
Future Implications
This development raises questions about the ongoing litigation climate in the music industry and how defamation claims are interpreted, especially in the context of artistic expression and public debate. As the situation unfolds, UMG has not yet commented publicly on the appeal.
