Drake is facing heavy criticism from hip hop figures after filing a petition against Universal Music Group (UMG) over what he claims were illegal streaming tactics used to boost Kendrick Lamar’s diss track, “Not Like Us,” at the expense of his own music.
The petition, which accuses UMG of using bots and other underhanded methods to manipulate streaming numbers, has sparked a wave of mockery from fellow artists and fans alike.
Many interpreted the legal action as a reaction to Drake’s loss in a recent rap battle with Lamar, and the petition quickly became a topic of ridicule.
Charlamagne Tha God, a well-known media personality, took to social media to voice his disappointment over Drake’s decision to sue UMG. "Come on man," he posted. "Because you lost a rap battle? Dot said Squabble Up Not Lawyer Up. I'm just here for the chaos. Let’s Discuss….."
Charlamagne, a long-time critic of Drake, emphasized how the petition came off as impulsive and emotional. Despite his critique, Charlamagne has praised Drake in the past, such as when he commended him for his handling of the Meek Mill beef and praised his diss track “Family Matters” aimed at Lamar.
Kendrick Lamar’s affiliates were less forgiving. Punch, the president of Lamar’s former label, Top Dawg Entertainment, directly mocked Drake on Twitter, writing, “Naaaaaahhhh. The rap streets is done. SMH.” The comment was a clear jab at Drake, who has been seen as a dominant figure in the rap industry but has now become the subject of public ridicule.
Producer Mustard, who worked on Lamar’s track “Not Like Us,” also chimed in, posting a laughing emoji in response to Punch’s tweet. Mustard, who has had a strained relationship with Drake in 2024, was quick to pile on, showing his amusement at the situation.
Rapper Rapsody, who collaborated with Kendrick Lamar on his iconic To Pimp a Butterfly album, also weighed in on the controversy.
She tweeted, “Legal action over losing a rap beef? My my my,” expressing disbelief at Drake’s decision to pursue legal action. Rapsody later deleted a follow-up tweet in which she further criticized Drake’s actions.
“Some of y’all big sensitive out here I see,” she wrote. "Ya really think this lawsuit is rooted in protecting artist?" She implied that Drake's lawsuit wasn’t about defending the rights of other artists but rather about preserving his own legacy.
The controversy surrounding Drake’s petition has sent shockwaves through the hip hop community. His legal move has sparked debates about the integrity of the streaming industry and the ethics of seeking legal redress over a rap battle loss.
As UMG has yet to comment on the lawsuit, fans and critics are left to speculate whether this move will damage Drake's reputation or if it will simply be another blip in his storied career.
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