Canadian rap superstar Drake has initiated legal proceedings against Universal Music Group (UMG) and Spotify, alleging an orchestrated scheme to artificially inflate the success of Kendrick Lamar’s diss track, Not Like Us.
The allegations, filed by Drake’s company Frozen Moments LLC in a New York court, claim the companies used unethical tactics such as payola, bots, and other methods to boost streams and radio airplay for the track.
Claims of Manipulation
Drake’s legal team alleges that Universal deliberately manipulated the streaming ecosystem, accusing the label of cutting royalty rates for Not Like Us by 30% in exchange for preferential placement and recommendations on Spotify.
The filing further references claims by a purported whistleblower who alleged on a podcast that they were paid $2,500 to deploy streaming bots, contributing to the song’s meteoric rise.
In its first week, Not Like Us racked up 96 million streams, climbed to No. 1 on U.S. charts, and became a top-10 radio hit.
Drake’s lawyers argue these achievements came at the expense of the rapper’s own projects, including his 2021 album Certified Loverboy.
They allege that voice assistants like Apple’s Siri even redirected listeners to Lamar’s track when they requested Drake’s music.
“Streaming is a zero-sum game,” Drake’s legal team stated in court documents. “Every time a song breaks through, it means another artist does not.”
Universal Responds
Universal has denied the allegations, calling them “offensive and untrue.” A spokesperson stated:
“We employ the highest ethical practices in our marketing and promotional campaigns. Fans choose the music they want to hear.”
Spotify and Lamar have yet to respond to the allegations.
A Precursor to Full Legal Action
The pre-action petition seeks to compel Universal and Spotify to preserve all relevant documents and communications related to the alleged scheme.
The filing suggests that Drake attempted to address the matter privately but was met with resistance from Universal. The rapper’s team claims the label retaliated by dismissing employees perceived as loyal to him.
Ongoing Rap Feud
The legal action follows months of tension between Drake and Lamar, whose rap beef has captured the attention of fans and critics alike.
Released earlier this year, Not Like Us was widely seen as a lyrical jab at Drake. Lamar’s new album, GNX, released last week, is considered a continuation of the feud.
Despite the controversy, Not Like Us has been nominated for four Grammy awards, including Song of the Year. Lamar is also slated to headline the 2025 Super Bowl halftime show, solidifying his growing prominence in the music industry.
Drake, however, remains one of Spotify’s top-streamed artists, ranking 13th globally compared to Lamar’s 23rd position.
