NewJeans' hit song 'How Sweet' is embroiled in a copyright dispute, with a lawsuit filed in the US, though their agency ADOR vehemently denies any wrongdoing. This situation highlights the growing importance of copyright protection within the global K-pop industry as its influence expands worldwide.
NewJeans 'How Sweet' Copyright Lawsuit: How Did It Start?
The plagiarism controversy surrounding NewJeans' 'How Sweet' gained significant attention following a report by Billboard. Four American songwriters, including Audrey Amakost, have filed a copyright lawsuit in the United States, alleging that the song, released by the popular K-pop group in 2024, infringes on their demo track titled 'One of a Kind.' According to the plaintiffs, they were involved in the process of creating new song candidates for NewJeans and completed a demo track by adding melodies and lyrics to an instrumental track provided through a publisher. They claim that this unselected demo song bears a strong resemblance to NewJeans' 'How Sweet.' Specifically, the lawsuit points to similarities in the 4/4 time signature, B♭ Minor key, and an approximately 8-bar melodic structure and a similar topline consisting of 311 notes. The plaintiffs assert that the first verse, in particular, is quantitatively and qualitatively very similar. They are seeking a portion of the profits generated from 'How Sweet,' arguing that their song was used without proper contract or licensing.
How Is ADOR Responding to the 'How Sweet' Plagiarism Allegations?
NewJeans' agency, ADOR, has taken a firm and proactive stance against the plagiarism claims. In an official statement, ADOR announced that they confirmed with the producing team BANA, who worked on the song, that there was absolutely no plagiarism involved. ADOR further stated that both NewJeans members and the agency intend to actively respond to the lawsuit, based on BANA's position. This indicates a direct conflict between the plaintiffs' claim of unauthorized use and ADOR's assertion of factual baselessness. As K-pop groups achieve greater global popularity, copyright-related disputes are expected to be handled with increased scrutiny and thorough legal review. ADOR has expressed its commitment to participating diligently in the legal process to reveal the truth.
Music Plagiarism Lawsuits: How Are Rulings Made?
In music plagiarism lawsuits, mere perceived similarities in feel or atmosphere are generally not sufficient for a ruling. Courts conduct a comprehensive analysis of various musical elements, including melody, rhythm, harmonic progression, song structure, and originality, to determine whether plagiarism has occurred. Therefore, at this stage, it is difficult to definitively conclude 'certain plagiarism' based solely on the claims of one party. The plaintiffs' analysis of musical similarities and ADOR's counterarguments are sharply divided. Specific musical analysis data and evidence to be presented in court will be crucial for the final judgment. As K-pop music gains worldwide acclaim, copyright-related issues are being treated with increasing importance, and the outcome of this case could influence future similar disputes.
NewJeans 'How Sweet' Plagiarism Controversy: Fan Reactions
Fan reactions to the NewJeans 'How Sweet' plagiarism controversy are mixed. Some fans have noted perceived similarities when listening to the song and believe that if there was indeed a demo involvement, a controversy could arise. Conversely, other fans argue that the chord progressions used might be common within the genre and that making hasty judgments before a legal ruling is risky. Given that this involves a group with significant global influence like NewJeans, the controversy is attracting considerable attention not only from domestic and international music fans but also from the music industry. Fans are maintaining a cautious stance, awaiting the court's future decision.
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