SONY MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT Copyright Suits: A Comprehensive Overview
Introduction
Sony Music Entertainment (SME) stands as a global leader in the music industry, representing a vast array of artists and managing an extensive catalogue of musical works. Given its significant role, SME is both a protector and enforcer of copyright laws, frequently engaging in legal actions to safeguard its intellectual property. This article delves into notable copyright lawsuits involving Sony Music, examining the legal precedents they set and their implications for the music industry.
1. Sony Music vs. Napster: Unpaid Royalties
In August 2025, Sony Music filed a lawsuit against Napster, alleging the streaming service owed over $9.2 million in unpaid royalties. The complaint highlighted that Napster continued to stream Sony’s music without proper licensing agreements, leading to claims of willful infringement. Sony sought statutory damages amounting to $36 million, emphasising the importance of adhering to licensing agreements in the digital age.
2. Sony Music vs. Cox Communications: Internet Service Provider Liability
In a landmark case, Sony Music, alongside other record companies, sued Cox Communications for facilitating copyright infringement through its internet services. The jury found Cox liable for contributory infringement, awarding $1 billion in statutory damages. However, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit later vacated the damages, ruling that Cox was not vicariously liable. The case was remanded for a new trial on damages, setting a significant precedent for ISP liability in copyright infringement cases.
3. Sony Music vs. University of Southern California (USC): Unauthorised Use on Social Media
In March 2025, Sony Music sued USC for using over 170 of its songs in 283 social media posts without proper licensing. The university allegedly utilised tracks from artists like Michael Jackson and Britney Spears to promote its athletics program. Sony sought statutory damages of $150,000 per song, totalling tens of millions of dollars. The case underscored the importance of obtaining proper licenses for music used in promotional content. Reuters
4. Sony Music vs. Myntra: Unauthorised Use in Promotional Materials
In April 2025, Sony Music filed a petition against the Indian e-commerce platform Myntra for using its copyrighted sound recordings in promotional materials without authorisation. Sony demanded ₹5 crore in damages, highlighting the global nature of copyright enforcement and the need for businesses worldwide to respect intellectual property rights. Hindustan Times
5. Sony Music vs. Ultra Music Publishing: Internal Dispute
In December 2024, Ultra Music Publishing, led by Patrick Moxey, sued Sony Music for alleged copyright infringement, claiming that Sony had reproduced its copyrighted works without permission. Sony countered, arguing that the lawsuit was retaliatory following a trademark dispute between the two parties. The case highlighted the complexities of copyright ownership and the potential for disputes even among industry insiders. Music Business Worldwide
6. Sony Music vs. Triller: Unpaid Licensing Fees
Sony Music previously sued Triller for unpaid licensing fees, alleging that the social media platform used its music without proper compensation. The case resulted in a settlement, with Triller agreeing to pay a significant sum to resolve the dispute. This case emphasised the importance of clear licensing agreements between content creators and platforms.
7. Sony Music vs. Marriott: Unauthorised Use in Social Media Marketing
In 2024, Sony Music sued Marriott International for using its copyrighted music in social media marketing without proper authorisation. Sony claimed that Marriott had used its tracks in numerous posts to promote its brand, leading to claims of copyright infringement. The case underscored the need for businesses to obtain proper licenses when using music in promotional content.
8. Sony Music vs. DSW: Unauthorised Use in Social Media Posts
In August 2025, Sony Music sued DSW, a footwear retailer, for using its copyrighted music in social media posts without permission. The lawsuit alleged that DSW had used Sony’s tracks in TikTok and Instagram campaigns to promote its products. Sony sought damages, emphasising the importance of respecting copyright laws in digital marketing. PPC Land
9. Ilaiyaraaja vs. Sony Music: Unauthorised Use of Indian Compositions
In September 2025, Indian music composer Ilaiyaraaja filed a petition against Sony Music in the Madras High Court, alleging unauthorised use of over 300 of his compositions. Ilaiyaraaja claimed that his works were used without consent, leading to a legal battle over copyright ownership and usage rights. The case highlighted the challenges of enforcing copyright in the Indian music industry. The Economic Times
10. David Johansen and Other Rock Musicians vs. Sony Music: Reclaiming Copyrights
In February 2024, rock musicians, including David Johansen of the New York Dolls, sued Sony Music to reclaim their copyrights. The musicians alleged that Sony had retained rights to their works without proper authorisation. The case was settled, with Sony agreeing to return the rights to the artists, setting a precedent for artists seeking to reclaim their intellectual property. Reuters
Conclusion
Sony Music Entertainment’s involvement in various copyright lawsuits underscores the company’s commitment to protecting its intellectual property and the rights of artists. These cases highlight the complexities of copyright law in the digital age and the importance of clear licensing agreements. As the music industry continues to evolve, it is crucial for all parties—artists, record labels, and platforms—to understand and respect copyright laws to ensure fair compensation and the continued growth of the industry.