Spotify Hit with $1B Lawsuit Over Alleged Copyright Violations and Deceptive Practices
PRO Music Rights and Sosa Entertainment have filed a $1 billion lawsuit against Spotify, alleging copyright infringement and deceptive trade practices. The lawsuit claims Spotify failed to pay royalties on over 550 million streams and improperly removed content.
Bryan Simpson US Courthouse entrance
Key allegations in the lawsuit:
- Unpaid royalties on 550+ million streams
- Unjustified content removal starting May 2017
- Anti-competitive practices
- Unfair and deceptive business conduct
- Third-party contract interference
The content removal occurred without:
- Advance notice
- Explanation for removal
- Opportunity to address issues
- Chance to remedy the situation
- Following Spotify's stated policies
The removal reportedly damaged Sosa Entertainment's relationship with Merlin, which represents independent labels in negotiations with Spotify.
"Pro Music Rights intends to ask a Florida jury at trial to hold Spotify responsible for its reprehensible conduct of intellectual property infringement and unfair and deceptive trade practices," stated Jake Noch, CEO of Pro Music Rights.
Case details:
- Filed: November 25, 2019
- Court: U.S. District Court for Middle District of Florida
- Case number: 2:19-cv-00843
- Legal representation: Richard Gora and Sinead Rafferty (Gora LLC), Vito Roppo (Colosseum Counsel, PLLC)
Eminem wearing gray hoodie, close-up
This lawsuit follows another recent billion-dollar case filed by Eminem's publisher Eight Mile Style, which challenges certain Music Modernization Act provisions regarding Spotify's previous copyright infringements.
Related Articles
The Fugees' Pras Michel to Forfeit $64 Million After US Government Embezzlement Case
