Drake and iHeartMedia Settle Dispute Over Kendrick Lamar's "Not Like Us

Drake and iHeartMedia Settle Dispute over Kendrick Lamar's "Not Like Us"

Drake and iHeartMedia have reached an amicable resolution in their legal dispute over Kendrick Lamar's diss track "Not Like Us," according to court records. The settlement brings an end to the Texas-based lawsuit filed by Drake in November 2023, which alleged that iHeartMedia received illegal payments from Universal Music Group (UMG) to boost radio airplay for the song.

The lawsuit stemmed from Drake's claim that UMG engaged in "irregular and inappropriate business practices" to promote "Not Like Us," which he felt falsely accused him of being a sex offender and engaging in pedophilic acts. Drake also filed a separate defamation lawsuit against UMG in federal court in New York City.

The settlement between Drake and iHeartMedia leaves the claims against UMG active. A hearing on a motion by UMG's lawyers to dismiss the petition was scheduled to be held in San Antonio, Texas.

The feud between Drake and Lamar, both prominent figures in the hip-hop industry, has been ongoing for several years. The release of "Not Like Us" in 2023 further escalated the tension between the two artists.

Meanwhile, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is investigating iHeartMedia for allegedly forcing musicians to perform at its May country music festival in Austin for reduced pay in exchange for favorable airplay on its radio stations. iHeartMedia has denied these allegations, stating that performing at the festival has no bearing on airplay decisions.