Drake's had a great year so far with two number one singles and an album on the way. However, the rapper still has some legal issues he has to tend to. A few weeks back, a judge dismissed a lawsuit Detail filed against Drake over an alleged assault that happened in 2016. While he might be over that, Drake's is now moving towards taking publisher/management company Hebrew Hustle to court over using his likeness, according to Hollywood Reporter.
Drake was first sued by the company and the Estate of James Oscar Smith in 2014 after they claimed that Drake used "Jimmy Smith Rap" in his song "Pound Cake." Drake beat the case on ground of fairuse. Ahead of the appeals court's evaluation of the decision, Drake's counterclaims against Hebrew Hustle and it's founder, Stephen Hacker, are moving closer towards heading to court.
Drake lawsuit includes claims of false endorsement, violation of his publicity rights and unfair competition. Hebrew Hustle previously posted a picture of Drake, Lil Wayne and Birdman on their website and referenced his company as helping major artists create hits songs. The founder's bio included the line, “Stephen has played a heavy hand with his clients in the creation of hit songs for the likes of Eminem, Jay-Z, Kanye West, Lil Wayne, Drake, Nicki Minaj and others.” However, that's been removed.
Drake says Stephen's clients had no role in writing or producing any of his music. He also states the company didn't have his consent in using his name or likeness.
Both parties filed for a summary judgment in the case. Drake's moved for a summary judgment on his right of publicity claims while the company moved for a summary judgment on all claims. However, U.S. District Judge denied both of them
Read the full opinion below via Hollywood Reporter.
