Universal Music Group is not backing down in its legal battle with Drake. The label fired back at the rapper appeal in his lawsuit over Kendrick Lamar hit song Not Like Us telling the court in no uncertain terms that his legal argument is not the law.
The response was first reported by Billboard and has reignited the conversation about the ongoing tension between Drake and his former label. The lawsuit which centers on claims that UMG improperly promoted Not Like Us has been one of the most closely watched legal battles in the music industry.
What Drake Is Arguing
Drake has alleged that UMG used improper tactics to boost the streaming numbers and visibility of Kendrick Lamar diss track at his expense. His legal team has argued that the label had a duty to protect all of its artists and that promoting a song designed to damage one of their own was a breach of that duty.
The appeal represents Drake latest attempt to keep the case alive after earlier setbacks in court. His lawyers have refined their arguments and are pushing for the case to be heard on its merits.
Billboard reported that UMG response was unusually aggressive with the label legal team calling Drake interpretation of the law fundamentally flawed.
UMG Fires Back
UMG response was direct and dismissive. The label argued that Drake legal theory has no basis in existing law and that labels have the right to promote any song in their catalog regardless of how it might affect other artists on the roster.
The label also pointed out that Not Like Us became a massive hit on its own merits and that attributing its success to label manipulation ignores the reality of how music goes viral in the streaming era.
The Bigger Picture
This case has implications that extend far beyond Drake and Kendrick Lamar. If Drake arguments were accepted it could fundamentally change how labels operate and create new legal obligations around artist promotion. The music industry is watching closely.
The case continues to work through the courts and the next hearing could be pivotal. Fans can follow updates on Billboard and Complex. The Drake vs Kendrick rivalry continues to generate headlines even in the courtroom.
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