The ongoing court battle between rapper Drake and Universal Music Group (UMG) is intensifying as the superstar officially appeals a dismissed lawsuit.
Earlier this month, a federal judge rejected Drake’s defamation claim over Kendrick Lamar’s diss track “Not Like Us”, which branded him a “certified paedophile”. The judge ruled that such lyrics were expressions of opinion within a rap battle, not factual accusations, sparking mixed industry reactions and legal debates.
Drake’s legal team filed a notice on Wednesday, confirming his intent to appeal the ruling. His lawyers argue that millions of fans believed the song’s message and that the case should not have been dismissed too early, before full evidence could be presented in court.
If Drake wins the appeal, the lawsuit will return to the lower court for more hearings and investigation.
UMG has not yet commented on the appeal, while Drake’s representatives expressed confidence that the decision will receive a fair review.
Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us”, released in May 2024, was a huge hit and went on to win five Grammy Awards.
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