A federal judge in New York has dismissed rapper Drake’s defamation lawsuit against Universal Music Group (UMG). The case was about a song by Kendrick Lamar that Drake said damaged his reputation.
Judge Jeannette Vargas ruled that the lyrics from Lamar’s song “Not Like Us” were opinions, not statements of fact. She explained that in the world of rap music, where rivalry and bold lyrics are common, listeners do not take such words literally. The judge said the song used strong language, insults, and threats that are typical in rap battles, not real accusations.
Drake filed the lawsuit earlier this year, claiming that UMG promoted and released Lamar’s track, which included lines suggesting that he had inappropriate relationships with minors. Drake said those words were false and had hurt his image.
However, the judge disagreed. She said the song was part of a public feud between the two artists and full of exaggerated, creative expression. “No reasonable listener would believe these lyrics describe actual facts,” Judge Vargas wrote in her ruling.
The dispute between Drake and Lamar became one of the biggest rap battles in recent history. The two artists released several songs attacking each other, filled with personal jabs and harsh words.
After the ruling, a spokesperson for Drake said he plans to appeal the decision. UMG responded by saying the lawsuit should never have been filed, adding that the ruling protects freedom of speech and artistic creativity.
Legal experts say the case shows how difficult it can be to prove defamation in music, where exaggeration and metaphor are common. For now, the court’s decision means UMG will not face any penalties, and Lamar’s song will stay available on music platforms.
