July 23rd 2024.
In recent news, it has been reported that nearly half of the NBA teams are facing legal action for using copyrighted music in their social media videos without obtaining proper permission from the music companies who own the rights to the songs. This has caused quite a stir, with music companies Kobalt, Artist Publishing Group, Notting Hill Music, and Prescription Songs filing a lawsuit against 14 teams on July 19th.
According to Billboard, the music companies have accused the teams of using copyrighted music in their promotional videos on various platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, and X. It is alleged that the teams used the music to "increase viewership" and "engage its fanbase," without properly compensating the music companies.
Each of the teams involved in the lawsuit has been accused of knowingly using music that they were aware they should have paid for. The lawsuit states that "[the team] utilizes the full extent of legal protections available for its own intellectual property while simultaneously knowingly and willfully infringing on the intellectual property rights of the plaintiffs."
The teams facing these accusations include the New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers, Atlanta Hawks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Denver Nuggets, Indiana Pacers, Miami Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves, New Orleans Pelicans, Orlando Magic, Phoenix Suns, Portland Trail Blazers, Sacramento Kings, and San Antonio Spurs.
The music companies have even provided specific examples in their filings, citing songs by local artists that the teams are accused of using without permission. For instance, the New York Knicks have been accused of using songs by "New York legends" JAY-Z and Cardi B, while the Philadelphia 76ers have allegedly used music from Philadelphia native Meek Mill. The Atlanta Hawks have also been accused of using music from "Atlanta's own" Migos and OutKast.
It is clear that the music companies are taking this matter seriously and are seeking proper compensation for the unauthorized use of their copyrighted material. This situation serves as a reminder to always obtain proper permission and licenses when using copyrighted material to avoid legal consequences.
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