Archive · 24 Jan 2026
Drake Appeals Dismissal of Defamation Suit Against UMG
Drake is upset about a song by Kendrick Lamar that called him some very mean names.
He sued the music company that released the song, saying it hurt his reputation.
A judge said no, because it was just part of a rap argument and people wouldn't take it seriously.
Now, Drake is asking a higher court to look at the case again.
He thinks the judge's decision is wrong and could let people say mean things without consequences.
The music company has until March 27 to respond to Drake's appeal.
Drake filed an appeal after a judge dismissed his defamation lawsuit against UMG over Kendrick Lamar's song 'Not Like Us'.
The song contained lyrics calling Drake a 'certified pedophile', which Drake claimed harmed his reputation and safety.
The initial ruling in October 2025 stated that the lyrics were part of a rap battle and not meant to be taken as facts.
Drake's lawyers argue that the decision sets a dangerous precedent that rap lyrics can never be considered factual statements.
UMG has until March 27, 2026, to respond to Drake's appeal.
- Who
- Drake (plaintiff) vs. Universal Music Group (defendant)
- What
- Appeal of dismissed defamation lawsuit over Kendrick Lamar's song lyrics
- When
- Appeal filed on January 21, 2026; initial ruling in October 2025
- Where
- New York, USA
- Why
- Drake claims the lyrics harmed his reputation and safety, while the court ruled they were part of a rap battle and not factual
- Plaintiff
- Drake
- Defendant
- Universal Music Group (UMG)
- Song in Question
- Not Like Us by Kendrick Lamar
- Initial Ruling Date
- October 2025
- Appeal Filing Date
- January 21, 2026
- Response Deadline for UMG
- March 27, 2026
- Key Allegation
- Lyrics calling Drake a 'certified pedophile'