© Josh Brasted | WireImage
Megan Thee Stallion can breathe a sigh of relief as a copyright claim against her megahit “Savage” was dismissed in federal court last week. Producer James Greene had filed a lawsuit alleging the track lifted elements from his 1999 instrumental “It’s About to Be On.” However, Judge Katherine Polk Failla disagreed.
While both tracks share a similar percussion-driven backbone, the judge found the substance of each drum pattern qualitatively different upon listening. Even if Greene could prove the defendants had access to his work (which the judge doubted), the musical similarities weren’t substantial enough to constitute infringement.
Beyond dismissing the case, Judge Failla went so far as to declare any potential appeal “would not be taken in good faith,” effectively closing the book on this legal saga. It’s a win that comes as other artists grapple with their own copyright challenges in court.
Just last month, Latin singer Feid faced accusations of lifting parts of his smash “Ferxxo 100.” And earlier this year, a jury couldn’t reach a decision on whether Roddy Ricch’s “The Box” ripped off elements of a 1975 R&B deep cut. Elsewhere, Ed Sheeran’s legal troubles over “Thinking Out Loud” rumble on in appeals.
As catchy samples and interpolations keep topping the charts, it’s no surprise lawsuits have proliferated in kind. But with this precedent, artists like Megan can breathe easier knowing certain musical building blocks like drum patterns may skirt infringement claims if the overall expression stays distinct enough. Greene’s case is dismissed – and “Savage” remains undisputedly, well, savage.
