Universal Music Group has strongly denied rumours that its CEO, Sir Lucian Grainge, was involved in Kendrick Lamar's recent diss track targeting Drake. The company dismissed the claims as "completely unfounded" in an official statement.
The Feud That Shook Hip-Hop
The ongoing rivalry between Kendrick Lamar and Drake has dominated hip-hop headlines in recent months, with both artists releasing multiple tracks taking aim at each other. The latest escalation came when Lamar dropped a blistering verse many interpreted as containing veiled references to Universal's leadership.
Universal's Firm Response
In response to speculation about Grainge's potential involvement, a Universal spokesperson stated: "Any suggestion that Sir Lucian or Universal Music Group played any role in this artistic dispute is categorically false. Our executives maintain strict professional boundaries and do not interfere in artists' creative processes."
Industry Reactions
Music industry insiders have expressed scepticism about the allegations:
- "Record labels typically avoid getting involved in artists' personal beefs," said one veteran A&R executive
- "This conspiracy theory doesn't hold water when you examine how labels actually operate," added a prominent music journalist
The controversy comes at a sensitive time for Universal, which recently reported strong quarterly earnings but faces ongoing challenges in the streaming era. Observers note that while rap feuds often generate publicity, corporate involvement could damage crucial artist-label relationships.
