Looks like Drake’s in hot water again, this time over allegations of stream manipulation tied to gambling endorsements.
Drake has found himself at the center of a lawsuit that alleges he purchased music streams to inflate his popularity. This development comes as part of a larger case involving accusations against several public figures linked to the promotion of illegal online casinos. The lawsuit, filed by LaShawnna Ridley and Tiffany Hines, also names popular streamer Adin Ross, who has been known for his gambling activities on platforms such as Stake.
The plaintiffs claim that Drake and others were involved in promoting Stake’s operations, which they describe as illegal and unethical. Stake.us, the platform in question, was established to circumvent restrictions on Stake.com in the U.S. Both Drake and Ross have previously shared content on their social media channels showcasing their gambling experiences, further endorsing the site.
Drake’s partnership with Stake, reportedly valued at around $100 million, is considered one of the most lucrative celebrity gambling deals to date. However, the lawsuit accuses him of misusing some of these funds to artificially inflate his streaming figures. This accusation suggests that Drake utilized automated processes, often referred to as “bots,” to manipulate his streaming numbers. Since this case is civil, there are no public records or evidence currently available to substantiate these claims.
Interestingly, Drake recently leveled similar accusations against Kendrick Lamar’s label, Universal Music Group, claiming they were involved in unethical practices to undermine his success. This ongoing case, however, has hit a standstill. Both Universal Music Group and Spotify have categorically denied any wrongdoing regarding the promotion of Kendrick’s track ‘Not Like Us’.
Spotify has clear policies against artificial stream manipulation, stating that they regularly clean their platform to eliminate fraudulent activity. Their guidelines emphasize the importance of authenticity in streaming metrics, underscoring their commitment to maintaining a fair environment for all artists.
As the legal proceedings continue, The Tab has reached out to Drake for his response regarding the allegations presented in the lawsuit. With tensions running high, the outcome of this case could have significant implications for Drake’s career and standing in the music industry.
