Universal Music Group (UMG), alongside ABKCO Music & Records and Concord Music Group, has filed a massive lawsuit against Believe SAS and its subsidiary TuneCore, seeking $500 million in damages. UMG claims that Believe distributed sped-up versions of popular tracks on streaming platforms to circumvent copyright protections.
According to the lawsuit, which was filed in federal court on November 4, Believe allegedly allowed the distribution of millions of altered versions of copyrighted songs under fake artist names like “Kendirk Laamar” and “Arriana Gramde.” These minor modifications in speed helped the songs evade YouTube’s content-ID system, resulting in what UMG describes as “industrial-scale copyright infringement.” Hmm
The complaint states that Believe was either fully aware of the infringement or had clear indicators of it but continued to license and distribute these tracks. A UMG spokesperson emphasized that Believe’s practices not only affect major-label artists but also harm independent artists, including those on labels within trade bodies Believe is a member of.
TuneCore’s terms and conditions reportedly push responsibility for copyright violations onto users. However, UMG argues that Believe’s role as a distributor makes it complicit in knowingly allowing infringement to persist.
The popularity of sped-up tracks has surged recently, fueled by TikTok trends. In a 2022 interview with NME, producer Oliver Tree attributed this fascination with sped-up music to the fast-paced, digital lifestyles that encourage quick engagement.
This lawsuit highlights growing tensions between major labels and distributors as they navigate the challenges of digital music in the age of social media and content manipulation.
