Ultra Publishing Files Amended Lawsuit Against Sony Music Over Massive Copyright Infringement Claims

Ultra Publishing Files Amended Lawsuit Against Sony Music Over Massive Copyright Infringement Claims

By Marcus Bennett

March 13, 2025 at 05:32 PM

Sony Music faces expanded copyright infringement claims from Ultra Publishing in a newly amended lawsuit. The dispute centers around alleged unauthorized use of over 100 musical compositions across various platforms.

Ultra Publishing claims Sony Music has engaged in widespread copyright infringement through:

  • Unauthorized streaming and downloads
  • Improper physical product distribution
  • Unauthorized sync licensing
  • Direct negotiations with songwriters without proper authority

The amended complaint provides detailed evidence including:

  • Specific infringed works with registration numbers
  • Initial dates of alleged infringement
  • Involved digital platforms (primarily Spotify)
  • Affected labels and artists

Legal document titled Ultra Publishing Lawsuit

Legal document titled Ultra Publishing Lawsuit

This legal battle follows Sony Music's acquisition of Ultra Records, where they purchased a 50% stake initially and the remaining interest in 2022. While Sony Music claims the lawsuit is retaliation for a separate trademark dispute, Ultra Publishing strongly denies this characterization.

A live performance from Ultra Records-signed Icona Pop, whose 'Stockholm At Night' allegedly infringes on Ultra Publishing's interest in the underlying composition. Photo Credit: Kim Metso

A live performance from Ultra Records-signed Icona Pop, whose 'Stockholm At Night' allegedly infringes on Ultra Publishing's interest in the underlying composition. Photo Credit: Kim Metso

The amended complaint:

  • Is six pages longer than the original filing
  • Includes more specific details about alleged infringement
  • Signals possible additional lawsuits as more infringement is discovered
  • Refutes Sony's characterization of the suit as "revenge"

This case represents just the first of several planned legal actions by Ultra Publishing against Sony Music, with the company stating it will file additional lawsuits as more alleged infringement is uncovered.

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