Drake’s Streaming Fraud Allegations Over Kendrick Lamar’s ‘Not Like Us’

The longstanding rivalry between Drake and Kendrick Lamar has intensified with Drake’s recent legal actions concerning Lamar’s diss track, “Not Like Us.” Drake’s company, Frozen Moments LLC, filed petitions in New York and Texas courts, accusing Universal Music Group (UMG) and Spotify of employing deceptive practices to artificially boost the track’s success.

Allegations Against UMG and Spotify

Drake alleges that UMG, which distributes music for both artists, orchestrated a campaign to manipulate streaming platforms and airwaves to promote “Not Like Us.” The purported tactics include:

• Use of Bots: Employing automated programs to inflate streaming numbers artificially.
• Pay-to-Play Schemes: Engaging in undisclosed payments to secure increased radio play and favorable placement on streaming services.
• Licensing Incentives: Offering Spotify reduced licensing rates in exchange for heightened promotion of the track.

These actions allegedly led to “Not Like Us” amassing over 900 million streams on Spotify and achieving significant chart success.

UMG’s Response

Universal Music Group has firmly denied 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. No amount of contrived and absurd legal arguments in this pre-action submission can mask the fact that fans choose the music they want to hear.”

Legal Proceedings and Implications

Drake’s legal filings seek extensive documentation from UMG and Spotify, including payment records and communications, to substantiate claims of civil fraud, racketeering, and deceptive business practices. The petitions aim to preserve evidence for potential lawsuits under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act.

This legal confrontation not only escalates the personal feud between Drake and Lamar but also brings to light broader concerns regarding promotional ethics within the music industry. The outcome could set significant precedents for how streaming numbers are authenticated and how promotional practices are regulated.

Public and Industry Reactions

The hip-hop community and fans have expressed mixed reactions. Some criticize Drake for resorting to legal measures instead of responding through music, a traditional avenue in rap disputes. Others view the allegations as a critical examination of industry practices that may mislead consumers and unfairly impact artists’ careers.

Conclusion

As the legal process unfolds, the music industry watches closely. The case underscores the evolving dynamics of music promotion in the digital age and the importance of transparency and fairness in representing artists’ successes.