Drake will face UMG Recordings before a three-judge Second Circuit panel over his dismissed Not Like Us defamation case. The appeal, Graham v. UMG Recordings, Inc., No. 25-2758, asks the court to decide whether his lawsuit should be returned.
Earlier, Judge Jeannette Vargas threw out every claim, finding Kendrick Lamar’s lyrics expressed opinion rather than verifiable fact. Drake, whose legal name is Aubrey Drake Graham, later argued the lower court applied an overly broad rule to rap diss tracks.
Meanwhile, UMG says the lyrics must be read within their artistic setting. Two outside briefs backed the company, while Drake’s lawyers at Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP said the district judge relied on material beyond the complaint and drew improper conclusions.
Separate from the main appeal, Drake also wants New York’s highest state court to clarify a state-law issue. The federal panel will consider that request alongside the appeal.
Earlier, Judge Jeannette Vargas threw out every claim, finding Kendrick Lamar’s lyrics expressed opinion rather than verifiable fact. Drake, whose legal name is Aubrey Drake Graham, later argued the lower court applied an overly broad rule to rap diss tracks.
Meanwhile, UMG says the lyrics must be read within their artistic setting. Two outside briefs backed the company, while Drake’s lawyers at Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP said the district judge relied on material beyond the complaint and drew improper conclusions.
Separate from the main appeal, Drake also wants New York’s highest state court to clarify a state-law issue. The federal panel will consider that request alongside the appeal.
