NewJeans' hit song 'How Sweet' is facing a copyright infringement lawsuit in the US over allegations of unauthorized use of a demo melody. Their agency, ADOR, has strongly denied any plagiarism and vowed legal action. What's the real story behind the controversy?
NewJeans 'How Sweet' Copyright Lawsuit: What's the Issue?
Global K-pop sensation NewJeans is at the center of a copyright infringement lawsuit in the United States concerning their hit track 'How Sweet.' The controversy erupted when four composers filed a lawsuit, claiming that the melody from their demo song was used without authorization in NewJeans' latest release. The composers allege that the first verse of 'How Sweet' bears a strong resemblance to their demo track, titled 'One of a Kind,' which they submitted in January 2024 as a potential song for the group. They are seeking proportional profit sharing from the song. However, NewJeans' agency, ADOR, has vehemently denied these claims, stating that any accusations of plagiarism are baseless and that they intend to take firm legal action.
ADOR's Stance: 'No Plagiarism,' Firm Legal Response
ADOR has issued a swift and resolute response to the copyright infringement allegations surrounding 'How Sweet.' After verifying the facts with the production team, BANANA, ADOR clarified that there is absolutely no truth to the plagiarism claims. The agency emphasized its full trust in the production team's integrity and stated its intention to respond decisively through legal channels. This firm stance suggests that ADOR views the lawsuit not merely as an accusation but as an attempt to undermine the artists and creators involved. ADOR has pledged to do everything in its power to protect the rights of its artists and the creative team.
NewJeans 'How Sweet': Musical Acclaim Amidst Controversy
'How Sweet,' upon its release in May 2024, garnered significant critical and public acclaim, even being recognized by Rolling Stone in their '100 Best Songs of 2024' list. The song also performed well on various domestic and international music charts. This recognition makes the current copyright dispute particularly concerning for fans. The situation is compounded by the fact that NewJeans has been navigating internal disputes with their management since late last year. Amidst these challenges, the news of the lawsuit has led to a mix of concern and unwavering support from their fanbase. With recent positive discussions about member Minji's return to activities, this lawsuit adds another layer of complexity, prompting fans to voice their hopes that the members can remain focused on their music despite external pressures.
Navigating Copyright Disputes Involving Demo Tracks
Issues concerning the use of demo melodies or unreleased tracks in music production are not uncommon in the global music industry. To prevent such disputes and ensure fair copyright protection, clear contracts and established procedures are crucial. During collaborative work between composers and production teams, prior agreements on usage scope and profit distribution are essential. Specifically, if a demo track is used, even partially, in the final product, the rights associated with it must be clearly defined. As seen in the NewJeans case, if a demo is claimed to be used without a clear agreement, it can lead to legal battles. Therefore, maintaining transparency and adhering to legal procedures throughout the creative process is paramount. In the event of such a dispute, consulting with legal experts is advisable for a careful and strategic response.
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