Universal Music Group denies Drake’s allegations of boosting Kendrick Lamar’s ‘Not Like Us’

Universal Music Group calls Drake's claims of boosting Kendrick Lamar’s ‘Not Like Us’ offensive and untrue.

Universal Music Group (UMG) has denied allegations made by Drake that the company conspired to artificially inflate the popularity of Kendrick Lamar’s song Not Like Us.

In a statement to Billboard, UMG described the claims as "offensive and untrue," emphasizing its ethical practices in marketing and promotion.

Drake’s filing, submitted through his Frozen Moments LLC, accused UMG of engaging in a scheme with Spotify to promote Lamar’s song, alleging the use of bots, reduced licensing rates, and paid influencers. The rapper also claimed UMG manipulated Apple’s Siri to direct users to the song. The filing alleges that UMG dismissed Drake’s concerns and suggested he sue Lamar instead.

UMG dismissed these accusations, stating fans choose the music they listen to, and referred to Drake’s legal arguments as "contrived." The pre-action petition under New York law seeks evidence to build a potential lawsuit but does not guarantee one will follow.