Lucian Grainge, chairman and CEO of Universal Music Group (UMG), has formally responded to Drake's defamation lawsuit over the song 'Not Like Us' by Kendrick Lamar, calling the claims 'groundless and indeed ridiculous'. In a declaration filed with the Southern District of New York, Grainge denied any involvement in the release or promotion of the track, which is at the centre of the ongoing rap feud.
Grainge's statement comes months after Drake sued his own record label, alleging defamation and that Grainge was personally involved in a scheme to devalue his brand. Grainge dismissed these allegations as 'farcical' and 'nonsensical', noting that UMG has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in Drake's career, including a reported $400 million deal renewed in 2022.
The UMG chief emphasised that his role overseeing a multinational corporation with operations in 60 countries meant he was not involved in the day-to-day decisions regarding individual recordings. He stated he had not heard 'Not Like Us' or seen its cover art or music video until after their release by Interscope Records, a division of UMG.
In a separate letter, UMG's legal team described Drake's motion as a 'transparent attempt to harass' the company, arguing that the rapper's premise that he could not have lost a rap battle without a conspiracy is 'absurd'. The company maintained that Grainge should not be required to provide discovery, as he had no direct involvement.
The legal dispute continues as Drake's attorneys have sought to force UMG to turn over its contract with Lamar and details of alleged domestic violence claims against the rapper. Grainge, however, remains adamant that the lawsuit is without merit and aims to waste resources.
