Federal Judge Unseals Eight Mile Style v. Spotify Case, Sets July Hearing for Summary Judgement
A federal judge has unsealed the docket in the ongoing copyright infringement case between Eight Mile Style (Eminem's publisher) and Spotify, revealing significant developments in this years-long legal battle.
Eminem in black jacket and cap
Key Points of the Case:
- Eight Mile Style alleges Spotify failed to properly license over 240 Eminem compositions
- The compositions have reportedly generated billions of streams on Spotify
- Harry Fox Agency (HFA) was added as a co-defendant in 2020
- Spotify brought Kobalt in as a third-party defendant
Core Arguments:
- Eight Mile Style's Position:
- Spotify failed to obtain proper licensing since its launch
- Neither pre-MMA direct license nor Section 115 compulsory license was secured
- HFA's matching system was inadequate until 2019
- Claims Spotify compelled HFA to serve invalid backdated notices
- Spotify's Defense:
- Disputes underlying infringement claims
- Argues Kobalt bears liability for any potential infringement
- Seeks protection under the Music Modernization Act (MMA)
Legal Developments:
- Both sides are pushing for summary judgment
- Multiple expert testimonies face motions to strike
- The Justice Department has weighed in on MMA constitutionality
- Oral argument on summary judgment motions scheduled for July 12
Eminem wearing gray hoodie, close-up
The case highlights crucial issues in music licensing and streaming compliance, with potential industry-wide implications for digital service providers and publishers alike.
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