Universal Music Group has issued a forceful response to a defamation lawsuit filed by Drake on January 15, which accused the company of promoting a “false and malicious narrative” about him through the release of Kendrick Lamar’s diss track “Not Like Us.”

Drake’s lawsuit centers on UMG’s role in distributing and promoting the track, which he claims led to both online harassment and physical threats to his safety. The artist also alleges that UMG intentionally elevated misleading content that has harmed his reputation and endangered his security. This legal action comes just hours after Drake’s company, Frozen Moments LLC, dropped a previous petition that had accused UMG and Spotify of orchestrating an “artificial” viral push for “Not Like Us” via pay-to-play schemes and bots.

In its response, UMG categorically denied the allegations. A spokesperson for the label said, “These claims are not only untrue, but the idea that we would seek to harm the reputation of any artist — especially Drake — is completely illogical.” The spokesperson further emphasized UMG’s commitment to defending its reputation and its artist-first philosophy, adding, “We have invested massively in Drake’s music and have supported his remarkable success for many years.”

UMG’s statement went on to address Drake’s long history with the label, noting that throughout his career, Drake has actively used UMG to release his music, including contentious tracks like diss songs that are a staple of rap culture. The company also rejected the idea that it has engaged in any form of defamation: “We do not engage in defamation — against any individual.”

Drake, however, argues that UMG is using its massive resources to profit off content that he believes is designed to damage his public image. In his legal filing, Drake’s team at Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP asserts, “UMG knowingly promoted a false and defamatory message to elevate profits over the safety and well-being of its artists.”

The lawsuit also references a previous petition, filed in November 2024 and later withdrawn, that accused UMG of manipulating streaming services and radio airplay to artificially boost the song’s virality, including claims that the label used bots and paid promotional deals to drive streams. UMG has denied these allegations, with a Spotify representative previously stating, “Spotify has no economic incentive to prioritize “Not Like Us” over Drake’s own tracks.”