Court papers unsealed Monday marked the latest turn in Drake’s defamation suit against Universal Music Group, with the rapper moving to expand his claims to include several top executives by name. The filing builds on his broader case accusing UMG of deliberately amplifying Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us,” a chart-topping diss track whose incendiary lyrics he argues damaged his reputation.
In his complaint, Drake accuses UMG of harassment, defamation, and deceptive practices. He contends that the company used “covert strategies” to inflate the track’s visibility while it portrayed him in a deeply unfavorable light. One line in particular refers to him as a “certified pedophile,” language that set off intense debate among fans and critics alike.
The updated lawsuit names executives whom Drake holds personally responsible. Among them are Ramon Alvarez Smikle, Interscope’s executive vice president for digital marketing; Jordan Bell, who oversees influencer and content campaigns; and Steve Berman, president of marketing at Interscope. Others listed include Anthony Bucher of Hitmaker Services Inc., Tiffany Bullock of Interscope, Jesse Collins of Roc Nation, and Kojo Menne Asamoah, who was served after several attempts. UMG’s chief executive, Sir Lucian Grainge, is also cited.
Broadening the Scope
The complaint widens further to include senior figures across the music industry. Bill Evans, Interscope’s executive vice president for urban promotion, is named alongside Jody Gerson, chief executive of Universal Music Publishing Group, and John Janick, Interscope’s CEO. Also included are David Kaefer, vice president at Spotify USA, and Andrew Kronfeld, an executive vice president at UMG.
Drake is seeking both statutory and actual damages, with the exact figure to be set at trial. His legal team is also pursuing treble damages, attorney’s fees, and additional costs under New York General Business Law Section 349, along with interest accrued before and after judgment.
Even as the legal battle unfolds, Drake is pressing ahead with new music. His ninth studio album, Iceman, is underway, led by two singles: “What Did I Miss?” released on July 5, and “Which One,” a collaboration with Central Cee, out July 25. While no release date has been confirmed, former NFL quarterback Johnny Manziel recently hinted the project could arrive in October or November.
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