Drake has filed a legal petition against Universal Music Group (UMG), accusing them of artificially inflating the popularity of Kendrick Lamar's diss track 'Not Like Us' through the use of bots and unfair streaming practices. The feud between Drake and Lamar has escalated into the legal arena, with allegations of deceptive business practices and potential violations of the RICO Act.
The ongoing feud between rap superstars Drake and Kendrick Lamar has taken a dramatic turn, with Drake filing a legal petition against Universal Music Group. The petition accuses UMG of using underhanded tactics to boost the streaming numbers of Lamar's diss track 'Not Like Us', which directly targets Drake. This legal move marks a significant escalation in their personal and professional conflict, shedding light on the darker side of the music industry's competitive practices.
In the detailed court filing, Drake's company, Frozen Moments LLC, claims that UMG engaged in a scheme involving bots and reduced licensing rates to artificially inflate the popularity of 'Not Like Us' on Spotify and other platforms. This alleged manipulation not only skewed streaming numbers but also potentially deceived consumers about the song's true popularity. The use of such tactics, if proven, could have wide-reaching implications for the fairness and integrity of streaming metrics in the music industry.
UMG has categorically denied the allegations, asserting that they employ the highest ethical practices in their marketing and promotional efforts. They argue that the popularity of music tracks is determined by listener choice, not corporate manipulation. This defense highlights the ongoing debate over the influence of major record labels in the digital age and their role in shaping music consumption without compromising artist integrity or misleading the public.
This lawsuit could set a precedent for how record labels handle artist relations and track promotions in the future. The outcome may influence not only the business practices of streaming platforms and record labels but also how artists control their music and guard against potential misuse. Furthermore, this case might prompt a broader discussion about transparency and fairness in the digital music distribution sector.
The legal battle between Drake and UMG over Kendrick Lamar's diss track highlights significant issues within the music industry, including the manipulation of streaming numbers and the ethics of music promotion. As the case unfolds, it will likely attract considerable attention from artists, record labels, and fans alike, all of whom have a stake in the outcome.
"The suggestion that UMG would do anything to undermine any of its artists is offensive and untrue." - UMG Spokesperson