Germany's music rights organization GEMA has filed a copyright infringement lawsuit against AI music platform Suno in the Munich Regional Court. This action follows GEMA's previous lawsuit against OpenAI and aligns with their recently proposed AI Charter and licensing framework.

GEMA alleges that Suno used copyrighted works without proper compensation for AI training purposes. The lawsuit specifically mentions unauthorized use of popular songs like Alphaville's "Forever Young" and Lou Bega's "Mambo No. 5," claiming Suno's platform generates "audio content that is confusingly similar to the original songs."

Key points of the lawsuit:

• Suno allegedly trained its AI on GEMA-represented works without payment
• Users can generate songs that closely mimic original compositions
• GEMA documented instances of copyright infringement in melody, harmony, and rhythm
• The case focuses on both AI training and derivative outputs

GEMA supervisory board chairman Ralf Weigand emphasized the urgent need for a legal framework ensuring fair compensation for creators, warning that without proper regulation, creative professionals may struggle to earn a living.

This legal action parallels similar developments in the United States, where major labels have sued Suno and Udio for copyright infringement. Suno has retained Latham & Watkins (also representing OpenAI and Anthropic) and maintains their fair use defense for AI training.

The case highlights the growing tension between AI technology companies and traditional music rights holders, with significant implications for the future of AI-generated music and creator compensation.

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