Spotify Responds to Drake: Streaming Platform Claims No Economic Incentive for Users

Spotify has recently responded to claims made by Drake in a legal filing last month regarding Kendrick Lamar’s track, “Not Like Us.” Drake, through his company Frozen Moments LLC, accused Universal Music Group and Spotify of artificially inflating streaming numbers for Lamar’s hit diss track about Drake.

In his petition filed in New York, Drake’s team alleged that UMG used “bots” and other methods to boost numbers for Lamar’s song. They also claimed that UMG charged Spotify lower licensing rates for “Not Like Us” in exchange for Spotify promoting the track to users searching for unrelated songs and artists.

However, Spotify has hit back, stating that they have no economic incentive for users to stream “Not Like Us” over any of Drake’s tracks. They disclosed that only one of Spotify for Artists’ tools, Marquee, was purchased for €500 to promote the track in France.

A spokesperson for Universal Music Group denied the accusations, claiming that they uphold high ethical standards in their marketing practices. Spotify also filed opposition papers in response to Drake’s petition, arguing that his claims should be denied.

David Kaefer, VP at Spotify USA, refuted Drake’s allegations in his affirmation, emphasizing that Spotify actively works to prevent and mitigate artificial streaming on their platform. Spotify invests heavily in reviewing and removing artificially manipulated streams to protect honest artists’ royalties.

Drake and Lamar both release their music under UMG through Republic Records and Interscope. “Not Like Us,” part of a rap feud between the two artists, was released on May 4 as one of three diss tracks within a short timeframe.

Drake’s legal team also filed another petition against UMG in Texas, claiming that UMG orchestrated a plan to turn “Not Like Us” into a viral hit to harm Drake’s businesses. This legal battle is ongoing, with both parties presenting their arguments.