Playboi Carti is facing a copyright infringement lawsuit over alleged unpaid vocal contributions to his song "Kelly K" from singer/songwriter/producer Eric Mercer Jr. (known professionally as Blakk Soul).

The lawsuit, filed in California federal court, names Cash Carti Music, Universal Music, and Interscope Records as defendants. "Kelly K," which has garnered over 55 million Spotify streams, appears on Carter's 2017 debut mixtape.

Key details of the lawsuit:

• Mercer recorded vocals with producer Jake One (Jacob Dutton), who is officially credited on the track
• No rights were transferred to Dutton or the defendants before the song's release
• In July 2019, Playboi Carti offered Mercer a 5% ownership interest via split sheet
• Mercer signed the agreement in January 2020 but claims he never received payment or accounting
• After failed attempts to resolve the issue through email and certified mail, Mercer rescinded the deal

The lawsuit alleges:

• Copyright infringement
• Publicity-right violations under California law
• Breach of contract (against Playboi Carti and his company)
• Unjust enrichment

Playboi Carti has not publicly addressed the lawsuit. His third studio album, "I Am Music," is expected to release soon, with its lead single "All Red" having dropped in September.

Case reference: 2:25-cv-00670

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