Drake Appeals Ruling in “Not Like Us” Lawsuit
Drake is taking steps to reinstate his lawsuit against Universal Music Group (UMG) after it was dismissed by a federal judge. On October 29, the rapper’s legal team submitted a notice of appeal in a New York federal court. A spokesperson for Drake confirmed the appeal, expressing anticipation for the Court of Appeals to review the case soon.
Background of the Lawsuit
Drake initially filed the lawsuit in January. He accused UMG of orchestrating a persistent campaign to promote “Not Like Us,” a diss track by Kendrick Lamar that he claims is defamatory. The lawsuit asserted that UMG’s actions damaged Drake’s reputation in the competitive realm of hip-hop.
UMG’s Defense
In response to Drake’s claims, UMG sought to dismiss the complaint. They argued that Drake willingly engaged in a rap battle and faced the consequences of his participation. The label emphasized that the lyrics in question were part of a broader context involving heated exchanges typical in rap culture.
Judicial Ruling
Judge Jeannette A. Vargas ruled in favor of UMG, stating that the confrontational nature of rap battles renders such lyrics as artistic expressions rather than definitive statements of fact. She noted that the language used in “Not Like Us” is typical of the genre, where exaggerated claims and insults are common.
Next Steps for Drake
- Drake’s legal team is preparing for the appeal process.
- The outcome will depend on the Court of Appeals’ review of the case.
- Both sides have yet to comment further on potential next steps.
The appeal highlights the ongoing dispute between Drake and Kendrick Lamar, two titans of the rap industry. As the saga unfolds, fans and observers alike will be watching closely for updates on this high-profile legal battle.
