Artist Partner Group Files Lawsuit Against Create Music Over Artist Contract Interference
Artist Partner Group (APG) has filed a lawsuit against Create Music Group, alleging copyright violations through artist poaching and unauthorized uploading of songs to YouTube.
The lawsuit claims Create Music Group committed multiple copyright infringements by:
- Uploading APG artists' songs to streaming services without permission
- Collecting royalties illegitimately
- Approaching APG-signed artists with YouTube monetization deals that violate existing contracts
- Making false claims about APG's performance to lure artists away
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Create Music Group has dismissed the allegations as "unfounded," suggesting APG is struggling to adapt to digital changes in the music industry. The company, founded in 2015, has built its reputation through YouTube royalties collection and owns several music-related businesses, including Label Engine and Flighthouse.
This isn't Create's first legal challenge. In 2022, multiple executives reported instances of Create claiming YouTube royalties without proper rights. Additionally, DigiGlo sued Create in 2023 over similar allegations involving more than 400 works on YouTube, a case that remains active.
The dispute highlights ongoing tensions between traditional music industry players and newer digital-focused companies, particularly regarding YouTube monetization rights and artist representation.
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