Drake Appeals Dismissal of Defamation Lawsuit Against Universal Music Group

Drake, whose full name is Aubrey Drake Graham, has formally filed an appeal against the dismissal of his defamation lawsuit against Universal Music Group (UMG). The lawsuit originated from Kendrick Lamar's diss track "Not Like Us," which accused Drake of being a "certified pedophile." This legal action was initiated in January 2025, following a series of diss tracks exchanged between the two artists during a highly publicized rap feud. On October 9, 2025, U.S. District Judge Jeannette Vargas dismissed the case, ruling that the lyrics in question were non-actionable opinions rather than defamatory statements of fact.

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Drake's legal team contends that the judge's ruling was premature and that the lyrics were taken seriously by millions of fans, implying that they were based on undisclosed evidence of wrongdoing. They argue that the context of a rap battle does not negate the potential for defamation, and they seek to revive the case for further litigation. The appeal aims to challenge Judge Vargas's assertion that the average listener would not interpret the lyrics as factual claims.

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In response to the dismissal, UMG stated that the lawsuit was an affront to artistic expression and that they were pleased with the court's decision. UMG emphasized that Drake had historically used the label to distribute his music and engage in rap battles, suggesting that he was now attempting to weaponize the legal system against creative expression. A spokesperson for Drake confirmed the intent to appeal, expressing anticipation for the Court of Appeals to review the case.

ABC NewsPitchforkDrake to revive UMG lawsuit with appealDrake Wants to Revive Defamation Lawsuit Against UMG

Critics of Drake's lawsuit have pointed out that it raises significant questions about the boundaries of artistic expression in music, particularly in genres known for hyperbolic and combative lyrics like hip-hop. Legal experts have noted that the outcome of this case could set a precedent for how courts handle defamation claims related to creative works. Some argue that the lawsuit could stifle artistic freedom if successful, while others believe that serious allegations should not be shielded by artistic license.

Drake Files For Appeal After Judge Disses Defamation Case Over ‘Not Like Us’

• “The broader context of a heated rap battle would not incline the reasonable listener to believe that ‘Not Like Us’ imparts verifiable facts about the plaintiff,” — Judge Jeannette Vargas

Drake Files For Appeal After Judge Disses Defamation Case Over ‘Not Like Us’

• “This confirms our intent to appeal, and we look forward to the Court of Appeals reviewing that filing in the coming weeks.” — Drake's spokesperson

Billboard

• “9, UMG released a statement, saying, "From the outset, this suit was an affront to all artists and their creative expression and never should have seen the light of day.” — UMG spokesperson

ABC News

The appeal will be reviewed by the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, where Drake's legal team will present their arguments. If the court sides with Drake, the case could be sent back to Judge Vargas for further proceedings, potentially leading to a jury trial. The ongoing legal battle continues to attract attention within the music industry, highlighting the complex interplay between artistic expression and legal accountability.

Billboard