Drake Files Dual Lawsuits Against Universal Music Group, Alleging Streaming Manipulation and Defamation

Drake vs Universal Music Group Legal Battle Symbolized by Studio Microphones

Streaming manipulation allegations rock the music industry as Drake confronts Universal Music Group with evidence of artificial stream inflation and systematic pay-for-play schemes. The unprecedented legal battle challenges long-standing industry practices while potentially reshaping how streaming success is measured and validated in the digital age.

by
November 26, 2024

Canadian artist, Drake, has launched dual legal battles against Universal Music Group.

First Lawsuit: Streaming Manipulation Allegations

 Drake has initiated unprecedented legal action against Universal Music Group (UMG) and Spotify, alleging a complex scheme to artificially boost Kendrick Lamar’s diss track ‘Not Like Us’. Key details include:

  • Streaming Manipulation Claims
  • Petition filed in New York State Supreme Court
  • Allegations of using bots to inflate streaming numbers
  • Claim that UMG offered Spotify a 30% reduced licensing fee
  • Accusation of pay-for-play arrangements with radio stations

Specific Allegations

  • UMG allegedly used bots to drive up streams
  • Paid radio promoters to increase airplay
  • Manipulated digital assistants like Siri to redirect users

Second Lawsuit: Defamation and False Representations

 Drake’s second legal action focuses on alleged defamatory practices by UMG, including:

  • Defamation Claims
  • Allegations of “funneling payments” to iHeartRadio
  • Claims of a systematic “pay-to-play scheme”
  • Assertion that UMG misrepresented song popularity

Broader Context
  • Ongoing Rivalry
  • Intense hip-hop feud between Drake and Kendrick Lamar
  • ‘Not Like Us’ accumulated over 900 million Spotify streams
  • Track dominated Billboard Hot 100 for two weeks

UMG’s Response

 Universal Music Group has strongly denied the allegations, stating the claims are “offensive and untrue” and emphasizing that fans ultimately choose their music.

Legal Strategy

 Drake’s legal team is pursuing:

  • Pre-trial discovery
  • Potential RICO Act violations
  • Preservation of evidence for future comprehensive lawsuit

Strategic Outlook

The legal actions represent an unprecedented escalation in the music industry’s streaming and promotion practices, potentially setting significant precedents for artist rights and streaming platform accountability.

Also See

Miley Cyrus Strikes Back: The Legal Battle Over “Flowers” Blooms

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