Universal Music Group will not have to face a lawsuit from Drake, who accused the record company of defamation over its distribution and promotion of Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us.”
“The Hollywood Reporter” said that U.S. District Judge Jeannette Vargas found on Thursday that Lamar’s diss track advances “nonactionable opinion” that can’t be considered defamatory.
Lamar (Interscope Records) and Drake (Republic Records) are represented by two different labels in the UMG system. Their rap battle turned to court earlier this year when the Toronto rapper claimed that UMG, which oversaw the distribution of “Not Like Us,” spread defamatory allegations that he’s a sexual predator. Drake also claimed the label made secret payments and offered reduced licensing rates to third parties to promote the song, with the goal of devaluing his music and brand amid contract negotiations