Legal Action by Drake

In a shocking legal move, rapper Drake has filed a petition against Universal Music Group (UMG) and Spotify, claiming that the two powerhouses conspired to artificially inflate the popularity of Kendrick Lamar’s diss track “Not Like Us” while simultaneously suppressing his music. The petition was submitted to the New York Supreme Court on Monday by attorneys representing Drake’s company, Frozen Moments LLC.

Allegations of Manipulation

According to the legal documents, UMG and Spotify allegedly initiated a campaign employing various tactics to enhance the visibility of Lamar's song—essentially manipulating the streaming landscape to create a false impression of its popularity. Drake's legal team asserts that UMG conspired with undisclosed parties to deploy "bots" that artificially inflated streams, misguiding consumers about the track's actual standing in the music world.

Incentives for Promotion

The petition further accuses UMG of financially incentivizing social media influencers to promote “Not Like Us” and of engaging in questionable “pay-to-play” agreements with radio stations to maximize the song's airplay. A spokesperson for UMG responded to these allegations, stating, “The suggestion that UMG would do anything to undermine any of its artists is offensive and untrue. We employ the highest ethical practices in our marketing and promotional campaigns.”

Background of Rivalry

Both Drake and Lamar have lengthy histories with UMG, with Drake signed under Republic Records and Lamar under Interscope. The current legal maneuver is a procedural step that allows Drake's lawyers to request the preservation of all pertinent documents and communications, effectively setting the stage for a potential lawsuit.

The Streaming Impact

The allegations come amid an ongoing rivalry between the two rappers, rooted in a series of diss tracks exchanged over the years. Lamar's songs have included damaging claims about Drake, including accusations related to personal conduct and family matters, while Drake has responded with tracks that attack Lamar's character and collaborations.

Financial Deals and Streaming Records

Moreover, the petition alleges that UMG lowered licensing rates with Spotify in exchange for promoting Lamar's track, even redirecting users searching for Drake's music towards “Not Like Us.” This practice reportedly contributed to Lamar's song achieving a staggering 900 million streams, marking it as the most-streamed diss track in Spotify's history and breaking multiple streaming records.

Profit-Driven Motives

Drake’s legal team further contends that the supposed intentions behind UMG’s practices were profit-driven, aiming to capitalize on the increased streams of Lamar's back catalogue as a result of the diss track's success. They also claim that UMG has displayed a lack of accountability, allegedly deflecting blame onto Lamar and attempting to dismiss Drake’s grievances.

Insider Allegations and RICO Claims

As details emerge, insiders suggest there may be more at play, with allegations that UMG has taken steps to conceal its strategies—such as terminating staff members perceived as loyal to Drake. The petition cites violations of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO), known for tackling organized crime, alongside claims of deceptive trade practices.

Potential Impact on the Industry

With this dramatic escalation in their feud, the music industry watches closely as Drake gears up for a potential legal battle against the influential entities that shape the music landscape. What will this mean for the future of both rappers and the industry at large? Only time will tell.