In a legal move that has sent shockwaves through the music industry, Drake has filed a “pre-action” petition in a Manhattan court, accusing Universal Music Group (UMG) and Spotify of artificially inflating the popularity of Kendrick Lamar’s diss track, Not Like Us. The document, filed on Monday, November 25, outlines allegations of bots, payola, and targeted manipulation of streaming platforms and digital assistants like Apple’s Siri.
Drake’s Allegations Against UMG and Spotify
According to a report from The Independent, Drake’s legal team asserts that UMG orchestrated a deliberate campaign to promote Lamar’s song at the expense of other artists, including Drake himself. The petition alleges UMG employed questionable methods, including:
- Using bots to inflate the streaming numbers for Not Like Us.
- Paying Spotify to promote the track to users searching for unrelated songs or artists.
- Collaborating with Apple to redirect Siri users seeking Drake’s music to Lamar’s diss track.
The document criticizes UMG for abandoning “ordinary business practices” in favor of tactics designed to dominate the charts and airwaves. While this filing is not a formal lawsuit, it seeks to compel UMG and Spotify to disclose internal documents that could substantiate these claims.
UMG has denied the allegations outright. A representative told Variety:
“The suggestion that UMG would do anything to undermine any of its artists is offensive and untrue. We employ the highest ethical practices in our marketing and promotional campaigns. 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 vs. Kendrick: A Heated Rivalry
This legal maneuver comes amid an escalating feud between Drake and Kendrick Lamar, fueled by years of lyrical jabs and personal animosity. Kendrick’s Not Like Us takes aim at Drake with accusations of dishonesty and controversial behavior. Meanwhile, Drake has responded both musically and publicly, including a fiery appearance on Canadian streamer xQc’s Kick channel.
During the livestream, Drake seemingly addressed Kendrick’s diss tracks, saying:
“I’m here — mind, body, and soul fully intact, in case you were wondering. You need facts to take me out; fairytales won’t do it.”
The stream also saw Drake taking shots at other artists, including Steve Lacy and The Weeknd, further intensifying his image as an unapologetic provocateur.
Industry Reactions
Top Dawg Entertainment’s Punch, a key figure in Kendrick Lamar’s camp, weighed in on social media, posting:
“Naaaaaahhhh. The rap streets is done. SMH.”
Meanwhile, Kendrick appeared unfazed, responding indirectly in a text exchange shared by his friend Reli on Instagram Stories. The playful exchange hinted at Kendrick’s amusement over Drake’s perceived desperation, with Kendrick reportedly laughing at the situation.
What’s Next?
Drake’s pre-action petition represents a significant step in his ongoing battle with Kendrick Lamar and UMG. If the court grants Drake’s request, it could lead to the release of internal documents that might reshape public perceptions of the music industry’s promotional practices.
While the accusations are yet to be proven, the case underscores the increasingly complex relationship between major labels, streaming platforms, and the artists they represent. For now, fans are left to speculate about the truth behind the numbers—and whether this feud will escalate further.
As the battle unfolds, one thing remains clear: Drake and Kendrick’s rivalry is far from over, and the rap world is watching closely.
