NewJeans' hit song 'How Sweet' is facing a copyright infringement lawsuit filed by four US songwriters who claim melodic similarities to their demo. ADOR, the group's agency, has vehemently denied these allegations, calling them groundless and vowing strong legal action. This dispute raises questions about the creative process and intellectual property rights in K-pop.
What are the copyright claims against NewJeans' 'How Sweet'?
According to reports, four US songwriters, including Audrey Amacost, have filed a lawsuit alleging that NewJeans' 2024 hit 'How Sweet' infringes on their copyright. The core of their claim centers on the melody and structure of the song's first verse, which they assert is substantially similar to a demo track titled 'One of a Kind.' This demo was reportedly submitted in January 2024 as part of the creative process for NewJeans' potential tracks. The songwriters contend that their work was used without proper authorization or compensation, and they are seeking royalties and profit sharing. This situation highlights the complexities of collaboration and ownership in the music industry, especially when dealing with international creators.
How is ADOR defending against the 'How Sweet' plagiarism accusations?
NewJeans' agency, ADOR, has issued a firm rebuttal, stating that the plagiarism allegations are completely unfounded. Following an internal review by their production team, BANA, ADOR confirmed that there was no basis for the claims of copyright infringement. The agency has declared its intention to take strong legal action against the accusers to protect its artists and intellectual property. This counter-stance signals a commitment to defending the integrity of the song and the group's creative output, emphasizing that the claims are baseless and potentially damaging to the artists' reputations. ADOR's swift and decisive response aims to shut down the controversy and prevent it from impacting NewJeans' ongoing activities.
What are the key points of contention in the 'How Sweet' lawsuit?
The central dispute revolves around the alleged use of a demo track, 'One of a Kind,' which the US songwriters claim to have provided in January 2024. They assert that the first verse melody of 'How Sweet' closely mirrors their demo, which was not ultimately selected for the final track. The crucial question is whether the similarities are coincidental, a result of common musical tropes, or if actual unauthorized use occurred. ADOR's defense implies that any perceived similarities are either coincidental or do not meet the legal threshold for infringement. The agency's position suggests that the demo track was either not used or that any similarities are too minor to constitute plagiarism, setting the stage for a legal battle over creative ownership and fair use.
What is the musical significance and reception of 'How Sweet'?
'How Sweet,' released in May 2024, has been a significant track for NewJeans, showcasing their signature refreshing sound. The song, along with its B-side 'Bubble Gum,' quickly garnered attention and critical acclaim. Notably, 'How Sweet' was recognized by Rolling Stone magazine as one of the '100 Best Songs of 2024,' underscoring its impact on the global music scene. This critical reception highlights the song's artistic merit and popularity among listeners and critics alike. The lawsuit's timing, following such positive recognition, adds another layer of complexity to the situation, potentially overshadowing the song's achievements and impacting the group's momentum.
What is the outlook for the 'How Sweet' copyright dispute and NewJeans' activities?
The ongoing legal battle unfolds amidst broader discussions about ADOR's management and its parent company, HYBE. While the copyright dispute is a separate legal matter, its resolution could have implications for NewJeans' career. The outcome will depend on the evidence presented by both sides regarding the demo track and the alleged similarities. Legal experts suggest that proving copyright infringement requires demonstrating substantial similarity and unauthorized use. As the case progresses, fans and industry observers will be closely watching how this legal challenge affects NewJeans' future releases and public image, particularly as the group continues to solidify its position as a leading K-pop act on the global stage.
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