Drake has filed a formal appeal following the dismissal of his defamation lawsuit against Universal Music Group (UMG), per hiphopwired.com.
According to legal documents filed this week, the Canadian rapper is seeking to overturn a previous ruling that rejected his claims regarding Kendrick Lamar’s chart-topping diss track, “Not Like Us”. In a comprehensive 60-page brief obtained by Rolling Stone, Drake’s legal team argues that the court’s earlier decision sets a dangerous precedent for the music industry.
Central to the appeal is the assertion that the court “effectively created an unprecedented and overbroad categorical rule” by suggesting that statements within rap diss tracks can never be considered factual. Drake’s lawyers contend that Lamar’s lyrics, specifically allegations regarding the star’s personal conduct, were presented as fact and have caused significant damage to his professional reputation and business interests.
The feud between the former collaborators dominated the cultural landscape last year, with “Not Like Us” becoming a global hit. The track featured a series of scathing accusations against the OVO founder, which his legal team now argues should be subject to defamation laws rather than being shielded as mere artistic expression.
While the legal battle intensifies, both artists remain focused on their solo careers. Drake is currently preparing for the release of his new studio album, “Iceman,” while Lamar continues to maintain a low profile following his successful GNX world tour.
