Drake's Legal Team Claims 'Not Like Us' Song Led Millions to Believe False Pedophilia Accusations
Drake's legal team is challenging Universal Music Group (UMG) in an ongoing discovery dispute related to their defamation lawsuit over Kendrick Lamar's track "Not Like Us." The controversy centers around content that Drake claims has led millions to believe he is a pedophile.
Drake in white shirt at press event
Key Points of the Legal Battle:
- Drake is suing UMG for defamation over Kendrick Lamar's "Not Like Us" track
- The song includes an image of Drake's Toronto mansion marked with 13 sex offender markers
- UMG has requested to pause discovery proceedings while seeking dismissal
- Drake's team opposes the stay, claiming millions interpreted the content as factual allegations
UMG's Position:
- Claims "Not Like Us" contains "hyperbolic and exaggerated" content expressing opinions, not facts
- Argues the case should be dismissed entirely
- Maintains they didn't act with "actual malice"
Drake's Response:
- Asserts millions worldwide interpreted the content as factual claims
- Notes his home was attacked by a gunman following the song's release
- Claims UMG continued promoting the track despite being aware of its harmful effects
Current Status:
- Judge set March 27th deadline for Drake to decide on submitting an amended complaint
- Drake has until April 16th to either amend or respond to UMG's dismissal motion
- Discovery materials being sought include documents about "Not Like Us," alleged payola, Lamar's Super Bowl performance, and Interscope CEO's compensation
Drake performing at Discovery concert
Drake's attorney Michael Gottlieb states UMG appears "desperate to avoid discovery" and suggests this motion is a delay tactic to keep certain documents hidden.