Why is Drake appealing the dismissal of his lawsuit against Universal Music Group?

Drake is appealing because his legal team argues that the judge's dismissal sets a dangerous precedent, suggesting rap lyrics cannot be defamatory, and that millions understood the lyrics in Kendrick Lamar's "Not Like Us" as factual statements.

What was the core of Drake's defamation lawsuit against Universal Music Group?

Drake's defamation lawsuit against Universal Music Group centered on lyrics in Kendrick Lamar's song "Not Like Us" that accused Drake of being a "certified pedophile."

What was the judge's reasoning for dismissing Drake's initial lawsuit?

The judge reasoned that within the context of a heated rap battle, a reasonable listener would not interpret the incendiary language and accusations in "Not Like Us" as verifiable facts about Drake.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Drake Appeals 'Dangerous' Rap Defamation Ruling

Drake Appeals 'Dangerous' Rap Defamation Ruling

24 Jan

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Summary

Drake is appealing a judge's dismissal of his defamation lawsuit.
The lawsuit stemmed from lyrics in Kendrick Lamar's song 'Not Like Us'.
Drake's team argues rap lyrics cannot be immune from defamation claims.

Drake Appeals 'Dangerous' Rap Defamation Ruling

Drake, 39, has filed an appeal following a federal judge's dismissal of his defamation lawsuit against Universal Music Group. The lawsuit originated from lyrics in Kendrick Lamar's 2024 song, 'Not Like Us,' which accused Drake of being a 'certified pedophile.' A federal judge in New York City dismissed the suit in October 2025, stating the intense language of a rap battle context would not lead a reasonable listener to believe the lyrics were factual.

Drake's legal team argues this ruling is "dangerous" and sets an "unprecedented" precedent that rap lyrics cannot be defamatory. They contend that millions globally understood the song's lyrics as factual statements, resulting in significant reputational harm and potential for violent retaliation. The initial lawsuit was filed in January, alleging the label released a song falsely accusing Drake and inciting violence.