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Drake claims Kendrick Lamar’s hit was artificially boosted

In a court filing, Drake’s company, Frozen Moments LLC, said UMG used bots and other tactics to boost streams for Lamar’s song.

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Drake claims UMG manipulated streams for Kendrick Lamar’s song “Not Like Us” using bots and deals. The rapper’s company seeks evidence in court filings.

Drake has accused Universal Music Group (UMG) of unfair practices to make Kendrick Lamar’s song, “Not Like Us,” more popular on streaming platforms like Spotify. The claim comes as the two rap superstars continue their heated feud.

In a court filing, Drake’s company, Frozen Moments LLC, said UMG used bots and other tactics to boost streams for Lamar’s song. The filing also accuses UMG of giving special deals to Spotify to promote the track. Drake believes these actions hurt his career and unfairly benefited his rival.

Legal Move Against UMG

Drake’s filing is not yet a lawsuit but aims to gather evidence for one. His legal team has asked the New York court to ensure UMG keeps all records related to the case.

The feud between Drake and Lamar, two of hip-hop’s biggest names, has been brewing for years. This court action marks a major step in their rivalry.

UMG denied the accusations. The company called them "offensive and untrue." In a statement, UMG said:

"We use ethical marketing practices and do not undermine any of our artists. Fans choose the music they want to hear."

Allegations Against UMG

According to the filing, UMG allegedly manipulated the streaming numbers for “Not Like Us” to make it go viral. Drake also claims the company fired employees loyal to him to cover up its actions.

The filing says UMG and Spotify have a close business relationship. Drake believes this connection was used to give Lamar’s song special treatment.

Spotify has not commented on the latest case. However, in the past, the platform has said it works hard to detect fake streams and stop artificial boosting.

Kendrick Lamar’s Hit Song

Lamar’s track, “Not Like Us,” was released in May and has become a massive hit. It has over 900 million plays on Spotify. The song includes sharp lyrics aimed at Drake, continuing their long-standing feud.

One line from the song says:

"Say, Drake, I hear you like 'em young, you better not ever go to cell block one."

The song’s success added fuel to the fight between the two artists.

A Decade-Long Rivalry

Drake, 38, is a Canadian rapper and singer with five Grammy Awards. Lamar, 37, is a Pulitzer Prize-winning artist known for his powerful lyrics.

The two were once collaborators, but their relationship turned sour. Lamar started taking public shots at Drake in 2013. The feud escalated earlier this year with both artists releasing diss tracks.

The legal move by Drake’s team could lead to a lawsuit. It also involves major music industry players like UMG and Spotify.

 

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