Drake’s Defamation Lawsuit Against Universal Music Group Dismissed

A federal court has dismissed a defamation lawsuit filed by Canadian rapper Drake against Universal Music Group (UMG), ruling that the language in question constitutes opinion rather than fact. The decision, made by Judge Jeannette A Vargas, stemmed from a dispute linked to the ongoing rivalry between Drake and fellow rapper Kendrick Lamar, described by the judge as “perhaps the most infamous rap battle in the genre’s history.”

Drake initiated the lawsuit in January 2024, claiming that UMG published and promoted Lamar’s diss track, titled Not Like Us, which included allegations of paedophilia against him. Drake contended that the song suggested listeners should take matters into their own hands, leading to concerns over public perception and safety. Despite the serious nature of the accusations, Judge Vargas determined that a reasonable listener would not interpret the lyrics as conveying verifiable facts about Drake.

Context of the Case

The judge emphasized the context of a “heated rap battle” where incendiary language and offensive comments are commonplace. She articulated that while the accusation made in the song is severe, the overall environment of the competition between the two artists would lead listeners to understand that the statements were not intended to be taken literally.

“Although the accusation that the plaintiff is a paedophile is certainly a serious one, the broader context… would not incline the reasonable listener to believe that Not Like Us imparts verifiable facts about plaintiff,” Vargas stated in her ruling.

UMG’s Response

UMG, the parent company for both artists, denied any wrongdoing. In a statement following the ruling, the company expressed relief at the court’s decision, asserting that the lawsuit posed a threat to artistic freedom. “From the outset, this suit was an affront to all artists and their creative expression and never should have seen the light of day,” the statement read. “We’re pleased with the court’s dismissal and look forward to continuing our work successfully promoting Drake’s music and investing in his career.”

Drake’s lawsuit claimed that the track not only harmed his reputation but also led to incidents of violence at his home in Toronto and diminished the value of his brand. The outcome highlights the complex interplay between artistic expression and legal accountability within the music industry, particularly in the context of rap battles that often employ hyperbolic and confrontational language.

The dismissal of this case may set a precedent regarding future disputes over artistic expression and defamation in the music industry, particularly in cases involving lyrical content that could be interpreted in various ways.