Sony Music Sues USC Over ‘Flagrant’ TikTok Videos Featuring Songs by Beyonce & Other Stars

In a move that has sent shockwaves throughout the entertainment industry, Sony Music has launched a lawsuit against the University of Southern California (USC) over alleged copyright infringement.

According to sources close to the matter, multiple TikTok videos created and shared by USC students have featured songs from Sony’s vast library of artists, including Beyonce, without proper authorization or licensing agreements. The use of these copyrighted materials has been deemed “flagrant” by Sony Music executives.

The lawsuit alleges that USC’s failure to properly educate its students on the importance of obtaining necessary permissions and paying royalties for using licensed content has led to a proliferation of infringing TikTok videos featuring songs from Sony’s roster, including those by pop sensation Beyonce.

Sony Music is seeking unspecified damages as well as injunctive relief, which would require USC to take immediate action to address the issue. The company has also asked the court to order USC to conduct regular monitoring and enforcement efforts to prevent future instances of copyright infringement on its platforms.

The lawsuit comes at a sensitive time for both parties. USC is currently embroiled in a separate controversy related to admissions practices, while Sony Music has been criticized for its own handling of intellectual property issues in recent years.

In response to the allegations, USC has released a statement expressing concern over the matter and promising to take swift action to address any instances of copyright infringement.

“We take these matters very seriously and are committed to ensuring that our students and faculty respect the intellectual property rights of creators and artists,” said a spokesperson for the university.

Source: https://www.billboard.com/pro/sony-music-sues-usc-tiktok-videos-songs-beyonce/