Adele’s 2015 song “Million Years Ago,” from her acclaimed album “25,” is facing a plagiarism lawsuit, leading a Brazilian judge to order its removal from all digital streaming platforms worldwide.
The lawsuit was filed by 62-year-old Brazilian composer Toninho Geraes, who alleges that Adele’s song copied elements from his 1995 samba classic “Mulheres (Women),” which was recorded by Brazilian artist Martinho da Vila on the album “Tá Delícia, Tá Gostoso.”
Consequently, Judge Victor Torres issued an injunction from Rio de Janeiro’s sixth commercial court, requiring an immediate global halt to the song’s use, reproduction, distribution, or commercialization by Sony and Universal, Adele’s labels.
Failure to comply with this order could lead to fines of up to $8,000 (£6,300) for each act of non-compliance.
Both music labels have the right to appeal the decision. The aim is to ensure that Adele’s song, which has over 223 million streams on Spotify, is removed from all streaming platforms once judicial notifications are completed.
Currently, no specific removal date has been established. Geraes is pursuing significant damages: lost royalties, $160,000 (£127,000) in moral damages, and songwriting credit on Adele’s track. He has also requested compensation for the song’s producer, Greg Kurstin.
This case brings to mind previous allegations from 2015 when Turkish music fans accused Adele of copying the 1985 song “Acilara Tutunmak” by Kurdish musician Ahmet Kaya.
However, no legal action was taken at that time. Adele, who has an estimated net worth of $220 million from her successful music career and merchandise, recently wrapped up a two-year residency in Las Vegas.
As of now, Adele has not publicly addressed the latest legal developments.
Olekanma Favour is a resourceful, self-motivated, and result-driven writer with a passion for crafting compelling narratives and insightful content. She loves tackling complex topics and weaving engaging stories.
When she’s not writing, Olekanma enjoys immersing herself in a good book, exploring new cuisines, and discovering new cultures.