Drake Files Notice of Appeal in Defamation Case Over Kendrick Lamar’s ‘Not Like Us’

In a major development for hip-hop’s biggest feud, Drake has officially filed a notice of appeal in his defamation lawsuit against Kendrick Lamar concerning the explosive diss track “Not Like Us.” The legal battle—watched closely by fans and legal experts—could redefine the boundaries between artistic expression and defamation in rap music.

How the Drake vs. Kendrick Legal Battle Started

The conflict ignited when Kendrick Lamar released “Not Like Us” earlier this year, a scathing track perceived as targeting Drake with pointed allegations about his personal life. While rap beefs are nothing new, Drake’s legal team argued that Lamar’s lyrics went beyond artistic rivalry and into defamatory territory, prompting a lawsuit in California.

A judge initially dismissed key claims, ruling that Lamar’s lyrics constituted protected speech under the First Amendment. Drake’s appeal challenges this decision, signaling that the legal (and lyrical) war is far from over.

Why Drake is Pushing Forward With an Appeal

Legal analysts suggest Drake’s appeal hinges on two arguments:
1. The court underestimated the reputational harm caused by Lamar’s lyrics.
2. The ruling failed to distinguish between hyperbolic rap banter and factual accusations.

“This case isn’t just about hip-hop—it’s about where free speech meets defamation,” a source close to Drake’s team revealed.

Kendrick Lamar’s Legal Defense

Lamar’s camp maintains that “Not Like Us” is protected artistic expression, citing legal precedents that shield musicians from defamation claims over lyrical content.

“Rap battles thrive on exaggeration and competition,” a Lamar representative stated. “This lawsuit feels like an attempt to censor creative expression rather than address legitimate concerns.”

Industry Impact: Could This Change Hip-Hop Forever?

The appeal’s outcome could have major consequences:
– If Drake wins: More artists may sue over diss tracks, potentially chilling rap’s competitive edge.
– If Lamar prevails: Courts may further cement protections for controversial lyrics.

Music lawyer Priya Kapoor notes, “This could rewrite the rules of rap beefs—artists might think twice before crossing certain lines.”

Fan Reactions & Social Media Firestorm

The feud continues to dominate online discourse, with hashtags like #DrakeVsKendrick and #NotLikeUsLawsuit trending. Fans are split:
– Team Drake: “Lyrics shouldn’t be a free pass to spread lies.”
– Team Kendrick: “Rap is about storytelling and competition—don’t bring lawyers into it.”

What Happens Next?

The appeal process could take months, keeping the feud in headlines. Meanwhile, fans speculate whether either artist will drop another diss track in response.

One thing’s clear: The clash between Drake and Kendrick Lamar remains unresolved in the studio and the courtroom.