Believe denies copyright infringement claims by Universal Music Group
French digital music company Believe has vehemently denied allegations of copyright infringement leveled against it by Universal Music Group (UMG) in a US lawsuit seeking damages of at least $500 million.
UMG, the world’s largest music label, claims that Believe and its US subsidiary, TuneCore, have profited from the distribution of infringing copies of copyrighted recordings. The lawsuit, filed in a New York federal court, alleges that Believe has manipulated song versions and artist names to circumvent copyright protections.
However, Believe has refuted these claims, asserting that it operates with the utmost respect for copyright laws and has robust systems in place to prevent infringement. The company maintains that it collaborates closely with rights holders to ensure the protection of their intellectual property.
“As companies that work with artists and labels around the world, we take the respect of copyright very seriously,” a Believe spokesperson said. “We have robust systems in place to identify and address any potential copyright infringement. We believe that UMG’s claims are without merit and we will vigorously defend ourselves.”
The lawsuit has sparked significant industry debate, with some experts questioning whether the allegations are justified. Others have raised concerns about the potential impact of such legal battles on the music industry, particularly for independent artists who rely on digital distribution platforms like TuneCore.
The dispute between Believe and UMG underscores the ongoing challenges in the digital music landscape, where the lines between copyright infringement and fair use can often be blurred. As streaming services and digital distribution platforms continue to reshape the music industry, legal battles over copyright infringement are likely to become more frequent.
The outcome of the lawsuit could have far-reaching implications for the music industry, potentially setting a precedent for future disputes between major labels and digital distributors. Both companies are expected to vigorously defend their positions in court, and the case is likely to be closely watched by industry observers.
As the legal battle unfolds, it remains to be seen whether UMG can substantiate its claims and whether Believe can successfully defend itself against the allegations. The outcome of the case could have a significant impact on the future of the digital music industry.