Mal: Drake’s UMG Lawsuit Isn’t Over Yet

While a judge recently dismissed Drake’s defamation lawsuit against Universal Music Group (UMG) concerning Kendrick Lamar’s diss track “Not Like Us,” the legal saga might not be over. According to commentator Mal, Drake’s legal team is expected to pursue an appeal, suggesting the rapper’s fight against UMG is far from concluded.

The Dismissal and the Appeal

Judge Jeannette A. Vargas dismissed the case last Thursday, ruling that Lamar’s lyrics, which label Drake a “pedophile,” should not be taken as factual statements within the context of a rap battle. Vargas noted that the “incendiary language and offensive accusations hurled by both participants” would not lead a reasonable listener to believe the song imparts verifiable facts about Drake.

Mal shared his perspective in a clip circulating online, stating, “People have to know that his lawyers and his team are gonna appeal this and take this to another level. I don’t know if people know that. This is not over with.” When asked if Drake should move on, Mal questioned, “Would you? If you and your team, your lawyers had things in your possession that prove what you’re saying is correct.”

UMG’s Response and Drake’s Legal Strategy

Drake’s legal team has indeed confirmed their plan to appeal the ruling. “We intend to appeal today’s ruling, and we look forward to the Court of Appeals reviewing it,” they stated, as reported by Pitchfork. This indicates a strong commitment to pursuing the case further, despite the initial dismissal.

UMG responded to the court’s decision by calling the lawsuit “an affront to all artists and their creative expression.” They expressed pleasure with the dismissal and affirmed their commitment to promoting Drake’s music and investing in his career. The core of Drake’s argument was that UMG defamed him by promoting Lamar’s song, which contained the serious accusation.