Adele is facing a lawsuit from Brazilian composer Toninho Geraes. He accuses her of ‘continued plagiarism, lost royalties, and moral damages.’ In response, Brazilian judge Víctor Torres issued a preliminary ruling ordering the ‘immediate and global’ removal of her 2015 song ‘Million Years Ago.’
The court warned the Brazilian branches of Adele’s labels, Sony and Universal, that they could face an $8,000 fine for ‘non-compliance,’ as the song is still available on streaming platforms. According to The Guardian, the music companies are awaiting a final decision and still have the option to appeal the ruling.
The case came to light on Friday, December 13. Following a hearing in the Sixth Commercial Court of Rio de Janeiro, where the plagiarism lawsuit is currently being reviewed. The preliminary order demands the ‘immediate and global suspension of the use, reproduction, editing, distribution, or sale’ of ‘Million Years Ago.’ Whether through physical or digital formats, streaming services, or file-sharing platforms.
@jarredjermaine What do you think? Adele “A Million Years Ago” and Martinho Da Vila “Mulheres”, are they similar? #adele #martinhodavila #music #hits #2010s #90s ♬ original sound – jarred jermaine
“This is an important milestone for Brazilian music. Which has often been used as inspiration for international hits without proper recognition,” said Brazilian composer Toninho Geraes’ lawyer, Fredimio Trotta.
He also mentioned that steps will be taken to ensure that radio and TV stations. As well as streaming platforms worldwide, are informed about the Brazilian court’s decision. Trotta expressed hope that the ruling will serve as a warning to international artists and record labels. Discouraging them from using elements of Brazilian music without permission.
The plagiarism claim against Adele is based on the samba classic ‘Mulheres’. The song was composed by Toninho Geraes and recorded by Brazilian singer Martinho da Vila in 1995.
British pop star Dua Lipa has also faced several plagiarism claims involving some of her biggest hits. One of the most notable cases centers around her song ‘Levitating,’ which has been the target of at least three separate lawsuits.
In March 2022, reggae band Artikal Sound System accused Lipa of copying the main hook from their track ‘Live Your Life.’ However, the case was dismissed due to ‘lack of evidence.’
Not long after, songwriters L. Russell Brown and Sandy Linzer filed another lawsuit, claiming Lipa borrowed the melody from their 1979 hit ‘Wiggle and Giggle All Night’ and their 1980 track ‘Don Diablo.’ Lipa’s legal team denied the allegations, insisting that she had “never heard those songs.”
@jarredjermaine Dua Lipa just got sued now twice this week for “Levitating” from Artikal Sound System & songwriters #dualipa #levitating #music #lawsuit ♬ Love You So – The King Khan & BBQ Show
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