Adele Faces Plagiarism Claim: Brazil Court Bans Song from Streaming
A Brazilian judge has issued a preliminary injunction ordering the global removal of Adele’s 2015 song “Million Years Ago” from all platforms, including streaming services, radio, and television, due to a plagiarism claim by Brazilian composer Toninho Geraes.
Geraes alleges that “Million Years Ago” copies the melody of his 1996 samba classic “Mulheres,” popularized by singer Martinho da Vila.
The court’s decision mandates that Sony Music and Universal Music cease the use, reproduction, distribution, or commercialization of Adele’s song without Geraes’ consent, under penalty of a fine of 50,000 reais (approximately $8,080) for non-compliance.
Universal Music has appealed the ruling, contending that any similarities between the two songs are coincidental and result from common musical clichés.
As of December 18, 2024, “Million Years Ago” remained available on streaming platforms pending the outcome of the appeal.
This case highlights the complexities of intellectual property rights in the music industry, where distinguishing between inspiration and infringement can be challenging.