Rapper Drake denies he stole ‘Janice STFU’ hook after being sued for copyright infringement

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By Linda Ikeji
19 October 2026, 3:38 pm
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Canadian rap artist Drake rejects the allegations that he took the “Janice STFU” hook after being demanded copyright violation.

The rap artist’s agents explained the accusations as unwarranted, firmly insisting that Drake composed the tune himself and had no connection with the individual implicating him of copying the work.

The suit was submitted on October 16, 2026, by songwriter and manufacturer Aviel Calev Hirschfield in a federal court in California. It names Drake, his OVO Sound label, UMG Recordings, and Universal Music Publishing as accuseds.

Hirschfield declares that the chorus of Janice STFU, launched as part of Drake’s Iceman album in May 2026, is practically similar to a demonstration he composed and tape-recorded previously in the year.

According to the problem, Hirschfield finished his tape-recording around January 25, 2026, and sent it to FnZ, the production duo of Michael Mulé and Isaac De Boni, along with other manufacturers connected with Drake. He declares he got no reaction however later on acknowledged his lyrics and tune when Drake’s tune was launched.

Hirschfield even more declares that he supplied Drake’s agents with audio files and taping metadata to support his assertion that his demonstration preceded the launched tune. He declares that the rap artist’s camp declined to acknowledge his contribution or use him songwriting credit and payment.

The claim looks for monetary damages and earnings supposedly created by the unauthorised usage of the chorus. Hirschfield is likewise asking for a jury trial, although he has actually not defined a specific quantity in damages.

Drake’s representative highly turned down the claims in a declaration to TMZ, stating: “These claims are unconditionally, unquestionably, and entirely rejected. There is not one iota of reality to these allegations.”

The agent likewise explained the suit as a “manufactured and unwarranted effort” to make use of Drake’s name and profession, including that the rap artist had no understanding of Hirschfield’s claims.