UMG Calls Drake's Lawsuit 'Meritless' Over Lamar Dispute

Universal Music Group (UMG) has filed to dismiss Drake's defamation lawsuit, arguing that it is a misguided attempt to recover from his loss in a rap battle against Kendrick Lamar. UMG characterized Drake's claims as meritless, stating that he willingly participated in the feud and is now trying to save face after losing. The lawsuit centers on UMG's alleged role in promoting Lamar's diss track 'Not Like Us,' which Drake claims falsely portrays him as a criminal. UMG countered that diss tracks are an accepted art form within hip hop, protected by the First Amendment, and pointed out that Drake himself has engaged in similar hyperbolic insults. They emphasized that allowing such a lawsuit to proceed could chill artistic expression in the genre. Additionally, UMG referenced Drake's previous advocacy against using rap lyrics in legal contexts, arguing that his current lawsuit contradicts that stance.