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The Ethics of Diss Tracks: Drake’s Lawsuit Against UMG 

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Drake is suing Universal Music Group (UMG) for promoting materials that directly affect his image and finances. This is definitely a news story to watch closely.

The timeliness of this may shock some. Some may be apt to believe that Drake’s move to take legal posturing is a sign of being a sore loser. Is it a justified response to injustice? One very important consideration is, would this be an issue if Drake’s diss track had received the same attention as Kendrick’s? Would we even be having this conversation? If his comeback was as incinerating, would this even be a thought?

The Diss Track Has a History

Diss tracks have always been a prominent feature of rap culture, showcasing the competitive nature of the industry and serving as a platform for artists to assert their dominance and lyrical prowess. As Mix Mag notes,

“Rappers started battling before the birth of boom bap. For half a century, the art of the diss track has evolved from braggadocios bar-slinging and lyrical punch-ups to careers being eviscerated in a couple of lethal lines.”

Diss tracks are inextricably tied to the rap industry. Admittedly, these hitbacks have become extremely visceral. However, they have not been subjected to intense scrutiny, at least not from a legal standpoint. That is not to say it’s acceptable. The form has been accepted by the majority of hip-hop fans if not promoted, as long as it did not lead to bloodshed. The purpose of a diss track is to defend oneself through clever lyrics against attacks on one’s talent or character. In every battle, there are victors and victims.

Drake Tries To Evade: “Not Like Us”

Drake has been under intense public scrutiny since the release of Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us.” It remains unfathomable that such a track would gain the widespread popularity and support it has. “Not Like Us” has become so looming that it’s impossible to deny that its massive promotion has tiptoed close to the boundaries of harassment—and may have surpassed them.

Drake faced the challenge of carrying out his daily activities in public spaces, with the booming sound of this large-scale track dominating the background. It does seem injurious to be bombarded constantly by a direct attack on one’s character. Not to mention, the track accuses him of unseemly behavior that many would find hard to live down.

When The Diss Hits

While it seems entertaining and harmless, there are implications. When considering entertainment value, few consider the aftershocks. In retrospect, one can acknowledge that such lethal lyricism could adversely affect an individual’s mental and physical well-being and career.

A closer listen to the track prompts one to question the boundaries of artistic expression and contemplate the ethical dilemmas that arise when artistic freedom clashes with one’s emotional state. At what point does freedom of expression become problematic and subject to legal scrutiny and repercussions? The lyrics of the track are highly inflammatory, even labeling Drake a “pedophile.”

Producing the track is one thing. Promoting the track is a completely different matter. Promoting such content can imply implicit consent and approval. That could be considered negligent behavior. Liability is a serious issue here and can set a precedent if it is found that the possible increase in airplay based on the push had the propensity to increase the risk of harm.

Drake Exercises Muscle

Drake is incensed by what followed the promotion of “Not Like Us.” Drake argues that the song’s promotion threatens to impact his financial future directly. The argument stems from the basis that both Drake’s and Lamar’s labels are under this umbrella company (UMG), suggesting an implicit bias. In the end, Drake’s response reflects the complex intersection of personal integrity, financial interests, and social responsibility in the music industry.

When Art Crosses Ethical Lines

There are some really unsettling things here. Sources indicate Drake’s legal argument is that the lyrics not only cross the boundary of harassment but also serve as a tactic for the company to manipulate their business relationship with him. As noted,

” UMG anticipated that extending Drake’s contract would be costly,” the lawsuit reads. By devaluing Drake’s music and brand, UMG would gain leverage to force Drake to sign a new deal on terms more favorable to UMG.”

If these allegations are proven true, it would be a deplorable act that warrants consequences. However, other things must be considered. The potential implications of this lawsuit are vast and could have an unimaginable impact on the industry and other artists.

Drake’s Suit and Future Precedent

Issues like this raise the question of whether labels or their umbrella corporations should be allowed to promote material that is potentially damaging to an individual’s welfare. Is there no social responsibility to those one employs? What, then, is the role of the artist who initiated the lyrical dispute? Ironically, this brings to mind the adage Don’t start nothing, won’t be nothing.” Or another appropriate adage: “If you don’t have anything nice to say, do not say anything at all.”

 

Furthermore, it questions the experiences of other artists similarly targeted in rap battles and raises concerns about the prevalence of such tactics in the industry. Lastly, it begs consideration of the future effects on Drake and Kendrick Lamar’s careers. What will this move do to their public image, industry relationships, and future musical endeavors?

If Drake has a solid enough case, the company will probably settle. What does that mean for the industry as a whole? Other companies may hesitate to work with artists who engage in or seek to promote this type of material. Artists and other labels may not want to work with Drake explicitly for fear of similar situations occurring.

Is It Worth It?

Even if he is compensated, it cannot undo what has already been made public. It may make him an even bigger target, further ruining his reputation as a legitimate hip-hop artist. One could say that it is extremely interesting how one clap back has snowballed into a significant issue with far-reaching consequences for Drake and those around him.

Written By: Renae Richardson

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