Drake has taken serious legal action against Universal Music Group (UMG), alleging the music giant maliciously promoted rival Kendrick Lamar’s diss track “Not Like Us” to undermine his value amidst ongoing negotiations for a new deal. In a recent filing, Drake claims UMG not only amplified Kendrick’s song but also used bots to inflate its streaming numbers, effectively attempting to devalue him as he approaches a contract renewal.
The tensions between Drake and Kendrick have been simmering since their early careers, but they escalated dramatically following Kendrick’s Grammy wins, where he took home five awards, including Song of the Year for “Not Like Us.” This public recognition has seemingly intensified Drake’s frustrations, especially as he lost out on a coveted Super Bowl halftime show spot to Kendrick.
Drake’s lawsuit outlines various allegations against UMG, including claims that the company paid influencers and social media platforms to promote Kendrick’s track while concealing their financial involvement. Notably, Drake cites an incident where Apple’s Siri allegedly redirected users searching for his album “Certified Lover Boy” to Kendrick’s song, suggesting a deliberate attempt to steer attention away from his work.
The legal battle comes as Drake has decided to cancel his Australian tour to dedicate time to the lawsuit, an unusual move for an artist of his stature, particularly given that tour revenues are crucial in a 360 contract, where labels retain a significant portion of earnings from album sales, tours, and merchandise. Unlike up-and-coming artists who benefit from such deals, Drake’s position prompts the question of whether he should remain under such constraints.
Drake’s contract with UMG mirrors those of legendary artists like Taylor Swift and Michael Jackson, locking him into a deal that has been beneficial for the label but restrictive for him. His recent legal maneuvers suggest a desire to renegotiate terms that have left him feeling trapped.
Interestingly, the animosity between Drake and Kendrick dates back to 2013, with Kendrick’s verse on Big Sean’s “Control” igniting their rivalry. In his latest legal filings, Drake has not only targeted UMG but also called out streaming platforms like Spotify and iHeartRadio, accusing them of complicity in the alleged smear campaign against him.
In a world where public perception can be influenced by social media and competitive rivalries, the narrative surrounding Drake has shifted. While UMG has publicly denied Drake’s claims, labeling them “illogical” and asserting their support for his career, the rapper’s bold accusations have ignited discussions about the power dynamics within the music industry.
Fans and industry insiders are divided on the implications of this unfolding drama. Some view Drake’s lawsuit as a desperate attempt to reclaim agency in an industry that often sidelines artists, while others see it as an overreach from an artist who has historically benefitted from the system he now criticizes.
As the legal proceedings continue, Drake’s team is pushing for a swift court date, but the outcome remains uncertain. The question looms: will this lawsuit lead to a significant industry shift, or is it merely a strategic move by Drake to secure a better deal for himself? Only time will tell how this high-profile feud will ultimately impact the careers of both artists involved.