Universal Music Slams Drake’s Lawsuit as “Offensive” and “Untrue”

Drake’s latest feud has escalated to unexpected heights, but it’s not with a fellow artist—this time, it’s with his own record label.

On November 25, the rapper filed a lawsuit against Universal Music Group (UMG), accusing the label of using an illegal “scheme” to boost streams for Kendrick Lamar’s diss track, “Not Like Us.” UMG wasted no time firing back, calling Drake’s claims both “offensive” and “untrue.”

In a statement provided to Variety, UMG defended their practices while taking direct aim at the Toronto rapper. “The suggestion that UMG would do anything to undermine any of its artists is offensive and untrue,” the label said. UMG also dismissed the lawsuit as a desperate attempt to deflect blame, stating, “No amount of contrived and absurd legal arguments in this pre-action submission can mask the fact that fans choose the music they want to hear.”

Drake’s lawsuit centers on allegations that UMG used bots and payola to inflate the streaming numbers of Kendrick Lamar’s fiery diss track, “Not Like Us,” released earlier this year. According to the lawsuit, UMG allegedly funneled payments to Spotify and social media influencers, giving Lamar an unfair advantage in their ongoing rivalry

Drake supporters, including DJ Akademiks, have long speculated about bot usage, claiming the song’s rapid rise couldn’t have been organic. Despite the theories, no solid evidence has been made public—until Drake decided to formally pursue legal action. Interestingly, Drake chose to go after UMG rather than Lamar’s team, adding another layer of intrigue to the saga.

UMG didn’t mince words in their rebuttal, emphasizing their ethical practices and pointing out Lamar’s overwhelming fan support. They framed Drake’s claims as sour grapes following the success of Lamar’s GNX album, which has been met with critical and commercial acclaim since its release on November 22. Fans praised the album for its production and Lamar’s return to more accessible, high-energy tracks, in contrast to the introspective tone of Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers (2022).

Drake’s petition is just the opening salvo in what could be a protracted legal battle. The rapper reportedly plans to file civil fraud and racketeering charges once he gathers more evidence. For now, UMG remains firm in their stance, defending Kendrick Lamar’s success as the result of authentic fan interest.