Universal Music Group will not have to face lawsuit from Drake, who accused the record company of defamation over its distribution and promotion of Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us.”
Dismissing the case, 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 pedophile by making secret payments and offering reduced licensing rates to third parties to promote the song, with the goal of devaluing his music and brand amid contract negotiations.
Drake and UMG didn’t immediately respond to requests for comment.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information is available.
www.hollywoodreporter.com
#Drakes #Defamation #Suit #Universal #Music #Group #Dismissed
