Universal Music Group NV has filed a lawsuit against the French record label Believe SA, seeking damages of at least $500 million, accusing it of widespread copyright infringement. The lawsuit, filed in the Southern District of New York, claims that Believe’s business practices were built on distributing unauthorized copies of copyrighted music from top global artists.
The lawsuit specifically points to Believe’s distribution of altered versions of popular tracks by artists like Lady Gaga and Justin Bieber under names such as “Llady Gaga” and “Jutin Biber,” which Universal Music alleges were designed to infringe on its artists’ copyrights. It also accuses Believe of distributing versions of these songs that are marketed as remixes or sped-up versions, but are allegedly infringing on the original tracks.
Believe, which helps independent musicians and smaller labels distribute their music, has denied the allegations and intends to contest the lawsuit. This legal action follows other similar cases Universal has taken against companies, including a recent lawsuit against AI firm Anthropic PBC for alleged copyright violations involving its music lyrics.
Universal’s lawsuit against Believe also involves ABKCO Music & Records and Concord Music Group, and highlights the ongoing tensions in the music industry over copyright protection and the fair compensation of artists.
Key Highlights:
- Universal Music sues Believe SA for copyright infringement, seeking $500 million in damages.
- The complaint claims Believe distributed unauthorized versions of famous tracks.
- Believe denies the allegations and plans to contest the lawsuit.