NEW YORK – A judge has dismissed a lawsuit filed by Drake against Universal Music Group (UMG). The lawsuit claimed that lyrics in a song by Kendrick Lamar, calling Drake a pedophile, were defamatory.
Judge Jeannette A. Vargas stated that the lyrics in Lamar’s song “Not Like Us” would be understood by a reasonable person as opinion, not fact, within the context of a rap battle.
The case arose from a public disagreement between Drake and Lamar. Drake argued that the song falsely accused him of being a sex offender. He also claimed the song damaged his reputation and brand.
UMG, which represents both artists, defended the song as artistic expression. The company said the lawsuit should not have been filed. They expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision.
Lamar was not named in the lawsuit.
Drake’s representatives have not yet commented on the dismissal.
