As expected, Drake has appealed in his libel suit against Universal Music Group over the promotion of Kendrick Lamars “Not like us.”
In a report on Wednesday morning, representatives of Drake wrote that the rapper submitted notice of appeal to the district court’s opinion and decision from earlier this month. Arguments from his legal team on the grounds of appeal are expected to be made in an application to come at a later date.
A representative for Drake shared in a statement Amount“This confirms our intention to appeal, and we look forward to the Court of Appeal reviewing this application in the coming weeks.” UMG did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Drake’s high-profile lawsuit against UMG was dismissed on October 9 after District Judge Jeannette Vargas cited “Not Like Us” as a “non-actionable opinion” that was not considered defamatory. “The fact that the recording was made in the midst of a rap battle is critical in assessing its impact on a reasonable listener,” Judge Vargas wrote in the ruling. “Even apparent statements of fact may assume the character of statements of opinion . . . when made in public debate, heated labor disputes, or other circumstances where an audience may anticipate the use of epithets, fiery rhetoric, or exaggeration.”
Lawyers for Drake immediately signaled their intention to appeal the dismissal, saying they “look forward to the appeals court reviewing it.”
Drake first filed a lawsuit against UMG in January regarding “Not Like Us,” the biggest hit from his battle with Lamar, claiming the label intentionally engaged in defamation by promoting the song. In March, UMG filed its motion to dismiss, prompting Drake’s legal team to file an amended complaint that focused on events that occurred since the initial filing, including Lamar’s performance of “Not Like Us” at the Super Bowl and the song’s performance at the 2025 Grammy Awards.
