Judge Dismisses Drake’s Defamation Case Against Universal Music Group

In a recent ruling, a federal judge has dismissed Drake's defamation lawsuit against Universal Music Group. The lawsuit stemmed from lyrics in Kendrick Lamar's track "Not Like Us," which accused Drake of being a pedophile. The judge determined that the lyrics were expressions of opinion rather than factual statements.

Judge Jeannette A. Vargas noted the lawsuit arose from what she described as "the vitriolic war of words" in a notorious rap rivalry. She stated that a reasonable listener would not interpret the lyrics as objective facts about Drake.

Vargas emphasized that even though the allegation is serious, the context of a fierce rap battle filled with provocative language would lead listeners to understand the artistic nature of the claims rather than viewing them as factual assertions.

The lawsuit, filed in January, accused UMG of promoting a track that contained false allegations against Drake and suggested that listeners should take vigilante action. It also claimed damage to his reputation and brand value.

UMG denied the allegations and expressed satisfaction with the court's decision, stating that the lawsuit challenged artistic expression and should not have been filed. Kendrick Lamar was not named in the lawsuit.

Drake's representatives did not provide an immediate comment on the ruling.