Drake’s bold legal move against Universal Music Group (UMG) is making waves, but not in the way he may have hoped. Streams and sales of Kendrick Lamar’s fiery diss track, Not Like Us, have skyrocketed since Drake’s accusations became public.
The controversy centers on Not Like Us, a chart-topping track that has stirred tension between the two rap heavyweights. Drake claims UMG, which oversees his label Republic Records and Kendrick’s Interscope Records, manipulated the song’s popularity using streaming bots and payola schemes.
He also accuses the music giant of defamation, alleging the release of a track containing accusations that he describes as “false and damaging.”
Since Drake’s legal filings on November 25, the track has experienced an explosive resurgence. According to Talk of the Charts, sales of Not Like Us have surged by 440%, while streams have jumped 20%.
The song has also climbed 16 spots on Spotify’s Global Chart and regained traction on Apple Music.
This renewed momentum positions Not Like Us for a likely return to the upper echelons of the Billboard Hot 100… a chart it previously dominated in May and July following its music video release.
Industry insiders are raising eyebrows at how Drake’s legal offensive might inadvertently be benefiting his rival. “Filing these lawsuits may draw attention to Kendrick’s music, which could further bolster his success,” explained a music legal analyst.
Audiomack co-founder Brian “Z” Zisook told Rolling Stone, “No amount of money is worth the reputational damage Drake is risking with this legal battle. This could turn out to be a strategic misstep.”
While the drama unfolds, Kendrick Lamar seems to be reaping the rewards of heightened public interest. The outcome of Drake’s claims against UMG remains uncertain, but for now, it’s clear this feud has amplified the reach of Not Like Us and reignited the fierce competition between two of hip-hop’s biggest stars.
