Spotify Hit with New $1 Billion Lawsuit Over Copyright Violations and Unfair 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.
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Key allegations in the lawsuit:
- Spotify failed to pay for over 550 million streams
- Content was removed without notice in May 2017
- No explanation or opportunity to address issues was provided
- Removal violated Spotify's stated policies and procedures
- Actions disrupted Sosa's relationship with Merlin (independent label representative)
The case (Pro Music Rights LLC et al v. Spotify AB et al., Case No. 2:19-cv-00843) was filed in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida. PRO Music Rights is represented by attorneys Richard Gora and Sinead Rafferty of Gora LLC, and Vito Roppo of Colosseum Counsel, PLLC.
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This lawsuit follows another recent billion-dollar case filed by Eminem's publisher Eight Mile Style, which challenges provisions of the Music Modernization Act regarding Spotify's liability for previous non-payments and infringements.
According to Jake Noch, founder and CEO of Pro Music Rights, the company intends to have a Florida jury evaluate Spotify's conduct regarding intellectual property infringement and unfair trade practices.
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