In a significant legal ruling, Judge Jeannette Vargas has dismissed Drake’s defamation lawsuit against Universal Music Group (UMG) concerning Kendrick Lamar’s controversial track, ‘Not Like Us.’ The lawsuit, filed in January, accused UMG of defamation for allowing the song’s publication and promotion, which Drake claimed spread a ‘false and malicious narrative.’ The song’s lyrics accused Drake and his associates of being ‘certified paedophiles,’ a claim Judge Vargas deemed a ‘nonactionable opinion’ within the context of a heated rap battle. Drake’s spokesperson announced plans to appeal the decision, while UMG expressed satisfaction with the ruling and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Drake’s career. ‘Not Like Us,’ released in May 2024, marked a pivotal moment in the ongoing feud between the two rappers, becoming Lamar’s biggest hit to date. The track won five Grammys and was a highlight of Lamar’s Super Bowl halftime show in February 2025. Judge Vargas described the dispute as ‘the most infamous rap battle in the genre’s history,’ emphasizing the incendiary nature of the artists’ exchanges. Despite the serious allegations, the judge concluded that the song’s lyrics would not be interpreted as factual statements by a reasonable listener. UMG’s spokesperson criticized the lawsuit as an attack on artistic freedom, while Drake’s legal team accused the label of exploiting the song to create a viral sensation. The case underscores the complexities of artistic expression and legal boundaries in the music industry.