Stephen A. Smith has expressed strong disapproval of Drake’s decision to file a pre-action petition against Universal Music Group in relation to Kendrick Lamar’s song “Not Like Us.” Smith argues that Drake’s legal approach is inconsistent with the values of hip-hop, which typically encourages resolution of disputes through creative expression rather than litigation. He contends that such a move damages the integrity of the genre by shifting away from artistic retaliation in favor of legal action.
Stephen A. Smith criticized Drake’s legal action against Universal Music Group, calling it a “bad look” for the rapper. He emphasized that, in hip-hop culture, disputes should be addressed through lyrical retaliation, not through legal means. Smith argued that Drake’s decision undermines the essence of hip-hop, where responding with a song is the traditional and appropriate response to a challenge.
Stephen A. Smith criticized Drake’s legal action against Universal Music Group over Kendrick Lamar’s track Not Like Us, arguing that it goes against hip-hop’s core values of authenticity and confrontation through music. Smith, emphasizing the cultural tradition of addressing lyrical diss with more lyrics, suggested Drake’s legal response makes him appear “weak and sensitive.” He highlighted the track’s success as proof of its legitimacy and stressed that legal battles have no place in rap conflicts, with many industry insiders privately agreeing that Drake is in the wrong.
