Universal Music Sues Believe Digital for $500M Over Alleged Copyright Infringement
Universal Music Group has filed a $500 million copyright infringement lawsuit against Believe and its TuneCore subsidiary, alleging widespread unauthorized distribution of protected music.
Post Malone performing onstage
Key Allegations:
- Believe and TuneCore distributed infringing content without proper vetting
- Works from major artists including Bee Gees, Elton John, and Lil Wayne were affected
- Defendants allegedly distributed "sped up" versions and unauthorized remixes
- Hundreds of millions of unauthorized streams occurred across various platforms
- Believe allegedly made false copyright claims through YouTube's Content ID system
The lawsuit claims Believe:
- Failed to conduct due diligence on submitted tracks
- Distributed content from questionable sources
- Collected royalties from infringing materials
- Made incorrect ownership claims on YouTube
- Continued distributing contested tracks on other platforms
Believe's Response: "We strongly refute these claims and will fight them. We have developed robust tools and processes to tackle this industrywide challenge, working collaboratively with partners and peers."
The case highlights growing tensions between major labels and digital distributors over copyright protection in the streaming era. Both parties await further legal proceedings in the New York federal court.
Businessman checking phone with charts
Emmy Feldman in white shirt
Colorful YouTube gift jewel icons
Related Articles
Artist Partner Group Files Lawsuit Against Create Music Over Artist Contract Interference
