Label Drama: Leaked Emails Hint at Republic Records Blocking Drake and Future’s Track “Like That”
It’s no time for music to be filled with scandal. Online, leaked emails, supposedly from Republic Records, have come to light. They reportedly indicted the label, whose artists included Drake, superstars, for a disgusting move to bar “Like That” from the radio.
The leaked correspondence is believed to have been targeted at Epic Records, which has the rapper Future. In addition to Drake, the song features Kendrick Lamar and a hip-hop heavyweight. According to the document, Republic Records are denying radio rights to Epic for this track.
WOW: Leaked email shows legal correspondents from Republic Records (Drake’s label) trying to block ‘Like That’ from getting radio play 🤯
The email was sent to Epic Records (Future’s label) saying: “We are not granting radio rights for ‘Like That’…Epic does not have the right… PIC.TWITTER.COM/IAPMM4BNO1
— Joey (@gothamhiphop) MAY 1, 2024
The following are just a few of the questions raised here. It’s worth mentioning that Drake is also a Republic Records signee, as is Metro Boomin, who produced the song. So, why would the label want to disrupt the work of its own artists? So, why would the label want to disrupt the work of its two most valuable signees? One possibility being floated by industry insiders is that a power struggle is raging within Republic.
In a song released last week, Kendrick Lamar appears to taunt Drake. What’s more, the line has been interpreted by some as gloating. Would Drake’s enemies at Republic attempt to censor him? That’s the real question.
This leaked email angers fans and followers of the industry. This discloses the hidden politics behind each record label. It reveals how much each label will do to restrict the artist’s control over their music. This battle of supremacy reveals the nature of the corporate environment in the music industry. It shows our artists’ control over the creativity of the label.
Nonetheless, the release of the email leaves in our heads a few unanswered questions. It is debatable why Republic Records sent this email action: this is a significant area of censorship. Some other factors may remain; e.g., contractual disagreement or sample permission issues. I’m not attempting to indicate anything.
This recent event poses a reminder of the severe and layered structure in the music world. Record companies tread a thin line. They try to support their artists’ work while keeping tight on their money. Only time will show what will the influence of the leaked email be . Whether “Like That” will play on the radio station . Fans can’t wait for the details and for the next chapter of this comedy play.
