
Iggy Azalea Claims Universal Music Owes 8-Figure Sum in Unpaid International Royalties, Threatens Legal Action
Iggy Azalea claims Universal Music Group (UMG) has withheld royalty payments "in the 8 figure range," specifically for earnings outside the United States. The Australian rapper plans to pursue legal action after a two-year private dispute with the label.

Iggy Azalea performs at concert venue
The conflict stems from Azalea's 2013 deal with Island Def Jam, a UMG subsidiary. According to the artist, an extensive audit revealed significant unpaid international royalties, yet UMG allegedly offered only an $18,000 settlement in response.
Azalea, who announced an "eight-figure" catalog deal with Domain Capital in November 2022, claims UMG takes advantage of artists who cannot afford legal battles over royalty disputes. She states her financial position allows her to pursue the matter in court.
This dispute follows other recent royalty-related legal challenges against UMG, including Limp Bizkit's lawsuit, which faced partial dismissal in January before filing an amended 120-page action in February. UMG has criticized these claims, with a dismissal hearing scheduled for March 24th.
While Azalea's social media statements don't include documentary evidence of the alleged unpaid royalties, she shared what appears to be screenshots of related team communications discussing the audit findings.
Key Points:
- Claimed unpaid royalties exceed $10 million
- Dispute focuses on international earnings
- Private negotiations lasted over two years
- UMG allegedly offered $18,000 settlement
- Legal action pending
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