A judge has ordered a song by British singer Adele to be pulled worldwide over a plagiarism row involving a Brazilian composer.
Adele’s 2015 hit “Million Years Ago” will no longer be available on streaming services or for physical or digital purchase, according to a preliminary injunction issued in Brazil.
The song is accused of plagiarizing “Mulheres,” a 1995 song by Brazilian singer Martinho da Vila, with the claim stating that Adele’s song uses the same melody and rhythm as the Brazilian track.
Brazilian composer Toninho Geraes is suing Adele for lost royalties, $160,000 in moral damages, and songwriting credit on “Million Years Ago.” The judge’s preliminary injunction orders Sony Music Entertainment and Universal Music, Adele’s labels, to stop using, reproducing, editing, distributing, or commercializing the song until the case is resolved.
The judge’s decision threatens the Brazilian subsidiaries of Sony Music Entertainment and Universal Music with a fine of $8,000 (£6,300) “per act of non-compliance.”
Geraes’ lawyer, Fredimio Trotta, said the ruling is a landmark for Brazilian music and will make international producers and artists think twice about using Brazilian music without permission.
Adele’s representatives have not commented on the matter, but the singer has faced similar allegations of plagiarism in the past. In 2015, Turkish fans accused her of plagiarizing a Kurdish singer’s song.
In a recent farewell performance in Las Vegas, Adele broke down in tears, saying she was “done” and “ready for the next chapter” of her life.
Her 100 Weekends With Adele performances and merchandise have earned her a massive nine-figure sum.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What is the song “Million Years Ago”?
A: “Million Years Ago” is a 2015 song by Adele.
Q: Who is accused of plagiarism?
A: Adele is accused of plagiarizing “Mulheres,” a 1995 song by Brazilian singer Martinho da Vila.
Q: What is the lawsuit seeking?
A: The lawsuit is seeking lost royalties, $160,000 in moral damages, and songwriting credit on “Million Years Ago.”
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