The legal fight between Drake and Universal Music Group (UMG) over Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” has taken another turn. A federal judge has given Drake’s legal team permission to serve a key witness through alternative means, opening the door for new testimony in the high-profile dispute.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Why is Drake Taking Legal Action Against UMG?
Drake accuses UMG of using artificial streaming tactics, often called “botting,” to inflate the popularity of Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us.”
His team claims this was done to damage his reputation and boost the diss track’s chart position. Court documents suggest that these alleged actions involved third parties who were paid or incentivized to manipulate streaming numbers.
Who is Kojo Menne Asamoah and Why is He Important?
Kojo Menne Asamoah has been identified as someone who may have direct knowledge of UMG’s alleged botting strategy.
According to Drake’s lawyers, Asamoah was involved in arranging payments or incentives to those carrying out the artificial streaming activity.
He is one of over 60 individuals Drake’s team plans to subpoena.
Why Did the Judge Allow Alternative Service?
Drake’s attorneys say they tried 11 separate times to serve Asamoah in person, hiring private investigators and spending more than $75,000 in the process. Those efforts failed to locate him.
U.S. District Judge Jeanette A. Vargas has now authorized service by certified mail, email, and posting the subpoena at his last known addresses. This is intended to ensure Asamoah is aware of the order and has a fair chance to respond.
How Will the Subpoena Be Delivered?
The court has approved three different delivery methods:
Certified mail sent to multiple physical addresses linked to Asamoah. Door posting of the subpoena at those addresses. Email to three active addresses connected to him or his businesses.
These steps give Drake’s legal team a higher chance of making contact without relying on face-to-face service.
What Happens if Asamoah Testifies?
If Asamoah is reached and complies, his testimony could provide critical details about whether UMG directed or financed any streaming manipulation for “Not Like Us.”
This could influence the direction of Drake’s defamation and unfair competition claims. If his statements align with Drake’s allegations, it could strengthen the case significantly.
What Has UMG Said?
So far, UMG has not issued a public response to the latest developments. The label has previously denied any wrongdoing in relation to “Not Like Us.”
Why This Case Matters
The outcome could have a ripple effect on how the music industry handles streaming fraud allegations. It also highlights how competitive disputes between artists can extend far beyond the music itself, spilling into the courtroom.
