Universal Music Group (UMG) has launched a $500 million lawsuit against Believe and TuneCore, alleging widespread copyright infringement and unauthorized distribution of protected musical content.

Key allegations in the lawsuit:

• Believe knowingly distributed infringing copies of copyrighted recordings, including altered versions of tracks from artists like Kendrick Lamar and Lady Gaga
• The company profited from unauthorized distribution through partnerships with TikTok, YouTube, and Spotify
• Believe allegedly exploited YouTube's content management system to claim ownership of UMG recordings
• The platform is accused of harboring fraudulent 'artists' and pirate record labels

UMG, along with Capitol Records, ABKCO Music & Records, and Concord Music Group, seeks:

• $500 million in damages
• Permanent injunction against infringing activities
• Statutory damages for pre-1972 sound recording infringement
• Impoundment and destruction of infringing copies
• Recovery of attorneys' fees and costs
• Trial by jury

The lawsuit specifically targets Believe's alleged practice of collecting royalties that rightfully belong to copyright owners and their distribution of unauthorized "sped up" or "remixed" versions of popular songs.

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