The ongoing legal battle between Drake and Universal Music Group (UMG) concerning the Kendrick Lamar track “Not Like Us” is officially moving to the next stage. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit has scheduled oral arguments for December 4, marking a pivotal moment in the Toronto rapper’s attempt to overturn the dismissal of his defamation lawsuit.
Drake initially filed the lawsuit in January 2025, alleging that UMG knowingly released and aggressively promoted “Not Like Us” despite the song containing false and defamatory claims. Notably, Kendrick Lamar was not named as a defendant in the legal action. In October 2025, U.S. District Judge Jeannette Vargas dismissed the case, concluding that the lyrics in question constituted nonactionable opinion within the context of a rap feud, suggesting that a reasonable listener would not interpret the barbs as verified facts.
Following the dismissal, Drake’s legal team filed an appeal, arguing that the ruling sets a dangerous precedent for artistic expression. His attorneys contend that the court’s decision implies that statements made within the medium of rap music are immune to defamation claims, regardless of the potential harm to an artist’s reputation or personal safety. Conversely, UMG has maintained that the lower court’s decision was correct, characterizing the lawsuit as a threat to creative freedom and asserting that the lyrics are merely rhetorical hyperbole common to battle rap.
At the upcoming December hearing, both parties will present their arguments before a panel of appellate judges. The court holds the authority to uphold the initial dismissal, reverse the ruling to revive the lawsuit, or remand portions of the case back to the lower court for further proceedings. Should the court rule in favor of allowing the case to proceed, it would move into the discovery phase, potentially leading to a trial. A final decision is not expected immediately following the oral arguments.
