Salt-N-Pepa Launch Legal Action Against UMG Over Master Rights Dispute
Salt-N-Pepa’s Legal Struggles with Universal Music Group
Salt-N-Pepa have opened up about their ongoing legal fight with Universal Music Group (UMG). In a recent interview with Good Morning America, the iconic rap duo, consisting of Cheryl “Salt” James and Sandra “Pepa” Denton, discussed the reasons behind their decision to take legal action against their record label, more than three decades after signing their contract.
Details of the Lawsuit
In May, Salt-N-Pepa initiated a federal lawsuit against UMG, alleging violations of the Copyright Act. The artists are seeking to reclaim control over their music’s intellectual property, which they believe UMG is unjustly withholding.
“It’s time for us to fight for our rights,” James asserted. She explained that artists typically have the right to regain their copyrights after 35 years. “We’ve done everything legally to recover our copyrights, but they refuse to cooperate, forcing us to sue,” she added.
Historical Context and Support
Reflecting on their situation, Denton remarked, “It’s the law. That’s what it boils down to.” James noted, “We didn’t have that leverage or knowledge back in the 1980s. It’s absurd to still be bound by a contract from 1985, 40 years later.” They are also receiving support from former member DJ Spinderella in their quest for rights.
In their lawsuit and during the GMA interview, Salt-N-Pepa claimed that UMG has obstructed their ability to promote their music and has removed their tracks from streaming platforms.
The Impact of the Dispute
“They clearly want to keep our music and are willing to fight us for it,” Denton expressed, emphasizing the label’s understanding of the value of their work. Salt-N-Pepa’s legal representatives have labeled the removal of their music from major streaming services as a “stunning act of retaliation.”
Alongside the rights to their music, the duo is pursuing damages that could exceed $1 million, and they are seeking a permanent injunction to affirm their rights to the recorded songs. They hope to find a “mutually acceptable resolution” to the situation.
As this case unfolds, what are your thoughts on artists’ rights and ownership in the music industry?
