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However, tensions reached a boiling point in November 2024, as Drake initiated legal action against Universal Music Group (UMG) and Spotify. He accused UMG of artificially inflating the popularity of Kendrick’s "Not Like Us" through questionable practices, including hiring bots and paying radio stations for increased AirPlay. UMG responded, vehemently denying these accusations and maintaining their integrity.
By January 2025, Drake escalated his legal maneuvering by filing a federal defamation lawsuit, claiming the song was damaging to his reputation due to its "dangerous lyrics" accused him of being a pedophile. UMG reiterated their support for both Drake and Kendrick, dismissing the claims as unfounded.