A federal judge in New York dismissed Drake's defamation lawsuit against Universal Music Group, ruling that Lamar's song 'Not Like Us' is protected opinion within the context of a heated rap battle, despite its provocative lyrics.
A federal judge dismissed Drake's defamation lawsuit against UMG over Kendrick Lamar's diss track 'Not Like Us,' ruling that the lyrics were hyperbolic and part of a heated rap battle, and therefore not legally defamatory.
Kendrick Lamar's 2024 has been marked by significant achievements, including two Number One singles and a Super Bowl halftime show performance. His new album, 'GNX,' reflects his dual identity as both a spiritualist and a fierce rapper, highlighted by a high-profile feud with Drake. This battle, which included diss tracks and personal allegations, has reshaped Lamar's public persona and earned him a Grammy nomination for Song of the Year. 'GNX' explores themes of ego and legacy, featuring collaborations with underground artists and nods to his cultural roots, while questioning the balance between artistic integrity and commercial success.
Drake, often likened to Roman Reigns in the rap game due to his commercial dominance, is facing a formidable challenge from Kendrick Lamar and a host of collaborators. Despite the odds, Drake's hitmaking prowess and previous rap beef experiences make him a formidable opponent. The widespread assault on Drake by his former collaborators underscores his power in the industry, and a win against Lamar could further elevate his status. Additionally, Drake has previously supported and elevated many of his current opponents, giving him leverage in the ongoing battle.
Splatoon 3 introduces a new rap battle track, "Suffer No Fools," featuring Off the Hook and Deep Cut, with a music video and translated lyrics available. The track will be featured in future Splatfests, adding to the game's musical offerings, while the latest Splatfest saw Team Keyboard and Team Usushio emerge as regional winners.
Stephen Colbert and Nicki Minaj engaged in a hilarious rap battle on "The Late Show," with Colbert delivering a clever response to Minaj's lyric swap. The playful exchange left Minaj impressed and the crowd cheering. This was not the first time the two engaged in a rap battle, as Minaj had previously delivered X-rated lyrics on the show in 2018.
Nashawn Breedlove, the actor and rapper known for his role in the film "8 Mile" and his rap battle against Eminem, has passed away at the age of 46. The cause of death is unknown. Breedlove's mother confirmed his death and expressed her grief on Facebook. He played the character Lotto, a fellow freestyle rapper, in "8 Mile" and was featured on the soundtrack for the film "The Wash." Rapper Mickey Factz paid tribute to Breedlove, highlighting his talent and aggressiveness.