UMG Calls Drake’s Appeal “Hypocritical” in Ongoing Defamation Case Over Rap Diss Track

Universal Music Group has strongly criticized Drake in a new legal filing, calling his attempt to revive a defamation lawsuit “astoundingly hypocritical.”

The dispute centers on Drake’s appeal to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit after a lower court dismissed his case. The lawsuit targets lyrics from Kendrick Lamar’s diss track “Not Like Us,” which Drake claims contain false and damaging allegations.

In its response, UMG argued that Drake’s position contradicts his own career in hip-hop. The company said he has long used its platform to release diss tracks and engage in rap feuds, which often include exaggerated or provocative language.

UMG’s lawyers stated that Drake “provoked and willingly participated” in a high-profile rap battle and is now seeking legal protection after losing public favor. They described the lawsuit as an attempt to recover from a cultural defeat rather than a legitimate legal grievance.

Drake’s legal team, however, argues that the case raises serious concerns about how courts treat rap lyrics. In a 117-page appellate brief filed in January 2026, his lawyers said the earlier ruling created a “dangerous categorical rule” by treating diss tracks as non-actionable opinion.

They specifically pointed to lyrics labeling Drake a “certified pedophile,” arguing that many listeners interpreted the claim as factual, not just artistic expression.

The appeal also references safety issues following the track’s release in May 2024, including a shooting at Drake’s Toronto home and attempted break-ins. Drake alleges that UMG knowingly promoted the song as a viral hit despite the alleged false claims, causing harm to his reputation and personal safety.

The case was initially dismissed in October 2025 by Jeannette A. Vargas, who ruled that a “reasonable listener” would view the lyrics as part of a rap feud, not as statements of fact.

Meanwhile, “Not Like Us” became a major commercial success, winning top honors at the Grammys and being performed during the Super Bowl halftime show.

Drake is also facing a separate class-action lawsuit in 2026 over allegations that he used an online gambling platform to artificially boost streaming numbers.

The appeals court will now decide whether the case should move forward to a jury trial or remain dismissed. A ruling is expected in the coming months.