Drake has initiated legal proceedings against Universal Music and Spotify, alleging that the two companies have manipulated streaming numbers for Kendrick Lamar’s diss track, “Not Like Us,” directed at him.
Drake‘s company, Frozen Moments LLC, has lodged a formal complaint in New York, alleging that several companies participated in an unlawful “scheme” that utilised bots, payola, and various tactics to boost the promotion of Lamar’s song.
Drake’s legal team asserted that Universal Music “did not rely on chance.” “The initiative aimed to influence and dominate the streaming platforms and broadcast channels.”
A representative from Universal described the allegations as “offensive and untrue,” further stating that “fans choose the music they want to hear.”
Spotify and Lamar have yet to issue a response.
The petition, categorised as a “pre-action petition,” does not constitute a complete lawsuit. It allows Drake’s legal team to request that the court mandates Universal and Spotify to safeguard all pertinent documents and information in anticipation of future legal proceedings.
The release of Not Like Us has been interpreted as a pivotal moment in the intensifying rivalry between Drake and Lamar that unfolded earlier this year.
In a recent court filing, Drake underscores the remarkable success of his song, which garnered 96 million streams within just seven days, secured the top position on the US charts, and became a top 10 radio hit. However, he raises concerns that these accomplishments may have been artificially inflated.
Attorneys representing him assert that Universal engaged in a conspiracy, collaborating with and compensating unidentified individuals to enhance the visibility of Not Like Us in a manner they describe as “artificial.”
Allegations have surfaced that the record label reduced its royalty rates for the song by 30%, purportedly in return for Spotify promoting it to its users.
The document references alleged statements from a “whistleblower” featured on a podcast, who claimed to have received $2,500 for creating software “bots” designed to stream the song continuously, thereby transforming it into “a crazy hit.”
According to allegations from Drake’s legal team, the situation has extended to various streaming platforms. They cite online reports indicating that when fans requested Apple’s voice assistant to play Drake’s album Certified Loverboy, they were directed to Not Like Us instead.
The recent legal filing marks an unexpected turn in the ongoing feud among the musicians, highlighting a significant divide between Drake and Universal, the label that has supported him throughout his career.
Court documents reveal that the star’s legal team asserts he attempted to resolve these allegations privately, yet they claim the label shows “no interest in taking responsibility for its misconduct.”
Additionally, it is alleged that Universal engaged in efforts to obscure its strategies, which reportedly involved terminating employees who were seen as loyal to Drake.
“Streaming represents a zero-sum game,” they contend. “Each time a song succeeds, it signifies another artist is left behind.” Consequently, they assert that Drake experienced “economic harm” due to Lamar’s actions.
A representative from Universal has dismissed the allegations.
In a statement, representatives asserted, “The suggestion that UMG would do anything to undermine any of its artists is offensive and untrue.”
“Our marketing and promotional campaigns adhere to the highest standards of ethical practices.” Despite the convoluted and questionable legal reasoning presented in this pre-action submission, the reality remains clear: fans ultimately have the power to select the music they wish to enjoy.
The legal filing was submitted just days after the unexpected release of Lamar’s new album, GNX, which many interpret as a sequel to his previous work, Not Like Us.
Recently, his diss track garnered nominations for four Grammy awards, including the prestigious Song of the Year. Additionally, he has secured a spot to perform at next year’s Super Bowl halftime show.
Nevertheless, he trails Drake when it comes to popularity. The rapper ranks as the 23rd most-streamed artist globally on Spotify, with Drake holding the 13th position.
