Drake's Label Seeks Dismissal of Defamation Suit Over Kendrick Lamar's 'Not Like Us'

Universal Music Group argues that the lawsuit lacks merit, citing artistic freedom and the context of a rap feud.

Universal Music Group (UMG) filed a motion to dismiss Drake's defamation lawsuit, claiming the lyrics in Kendrick Lamar's 'Not Like Us' are protected as opinion and rhetorical hyperbole under the First Amendment.
Drake's lawsuit alleges that the track falsely brands him as a pedophile, leading to threats, safety concerns, and disruptions to his personal life, including pulling his son from school.
UMG argues that Drake's lawsuit contradicts his previous support for a petition opposing the use of rap lyrics as evidence in legal cases, accusing him of hypocrisy.
The label asserts that diss tracks are a recognized artform that thrive on exaggerated insults, and dismissing the suit is necessary to preserve artistic freedom.
The feud between Drake and Lamar has spanned years, with 'Not Like Us' gaining widespread acclaim, including Grammy wins and a Super Bowl performance, while many commentators declared Lamar the victor in their rap battle.