Drake has withdrawn his legal petition against Universal Music Group (UMG) and Spotify, marking the end of a contentious legal spat over the alleged artificial inflation of streaming numbers for Kendrick Lamar’s hit song, NOT LIKE US. The withdrawal, which occurred without financial penalties to any party, was reported on January 15, 2025.
The legal action, initiated by Drake’s company, Frozen Moments LLC, accused UMG and Spotify of engaging in deceptive practices to boost the popularity of Lamar’s diss track.
These practices included the use of bots, payola schemes, and allegedly reduced licensing rates for NOT LIKE US. The accusations were part of a broader feud between Drake and Kendrick Lamar, which had previously played out through their music, leading to a series of diss tracks exchanged between the two artists in 2024.
The decision to withdraw the petition has sparked a range of reactions across social media platforms. Some users on X interpreted this move as a strategic retreat by Drake, suggesting that perhaps a settlement was reached behind closed doors. However, official statements from UMG have not confirmed any such agreement, stating only that they reserve their position, which leaves room for speculation on the exact terms of this resolution.
Legal experts and industry insiders have varied opinions on what this withdrawal signifies. Some argue that it might reflect a lack of sufficient evidence to proceed to a full lawsuit, or it could be a sign that both parties have decided to resolve their differences outside of court to avoid further damaging their professional relationships. Others see it as Drake’s acknowledgment of the complexities in proving such allegations in court, especially given UMG’s staunch denial of any wrongdoing, emphasizing that “fans choose the music they want to hear” and denying any manipulation.
This development also raises questions about the ongoing relationship between Drake and UMG, with whom he has been associated for his entire career. The withdrawal of the petition might suggest a desire to maintain a working relationship with the music giant, especially considering Drake’s significant influence and success within the industry.
While the legal chapter appears closed, the impact on both artistes’ public images and future collaborations remains to be seen. The feud has undoubtedly heightened interest in both artistes’ work, with NOT LIKE US gaining massive attention, despite or perhaps because of, the controversy surrounding its promotion.
As the music industry and fans digest this news, the focus shifts to what this means for Drake, Kendrick Lamar, and UMG in terms of future releases, collaborations, and the ever-evolving landscape of music streaming and promotion tactics.