Adele’s song was recently pulled off radio and streaming services worldwide. This came after a Brazilian judge ruled it copied another artist’s work. Media outlets like The Guardian and The Times covered the story.
A Brazilian judge rules Adele’s song plagiarized a classic hit
As The Times explained, Toninho Geraes, a 62-year-old singer and songwriter, said Adele’s 2015 song “Million Years Ago” copied his 1996 track “Mulheres.” That track was made famous by Brazilian singer Martinho da Vila. A court in Brazil later ordered Adele’s song to be removed from all radio, TV, and streaming platforms globally.
The court’s decisive order halts all usage of the song worldwide
Judge Victor Torres in Rio de Janeiro issued an injunction. This required Sony Music and Universal Music to immediately stop using, sharing, or distributing “Million Years Ago” in any form, whether physical or digital.
The financial threat enforces strict compliance
According to Sky News, the plagiarism case was first filed in 2021. To make sure the ruling is followed, the court imposed an $8,000 fine for every instance of non-compliance. This fine targeted the Brazilian branches of Adele’s record labels.
A landmark moment for protecting Brazilian music from exploitation
Fredimio Trotta, the lawyer representing Geraes, called the decision a big win for Brazilian music. He pointed out that Brazilian tracks are often used as inspiration for global hits.
Trotta said, “International producers and artists who have Brazilian music ‘on their radar’ for possible parasitic use will think twice, given this decision.”
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The legal battle seeks damages and songwriting credit
Geraes is asking for compensation. He wants $160,000 in damages and royalties he missed out on. He’s also demanding recognition as one of the songwriters on Adele’s track.
The lawyer’s statement underscores the fight against plagiarism
Trotta also told Sky News, “The decision interrupts this harmful, criminal act, and now time is running out against those being prosecuted. Because interrupted plagiarism is plagiarism that doesn’t make a profit.”
Fans previously noticed similarities to other songs
This isn’t the first time “Million Years Ago” has faced these claims. As The Guardian reported, fans in Turkey earlier said the song resembled “Acilara Tutunmak,” a 1985 track by Kurdish singer Ahmet Kaya.
The artist behind the accusation has decades of recognition
Toninho Geraes, now in his sixties, is a respected figure in Brazilian music. His song “Mulheres” became famous when performed by Martinho da Vila, a major Brazilian artist.
Global reactions amplify the case’s significance
The case has drawn international attention, sparking debates on copyright and originality in music. It’s seen as an important moment for protecting intellectual property on a global scale.
Implications for the music industry worldwide
Trotta believes this case could set a strong example. “International producers and artists who have Brazilian music ‘on their radar’ for possible parasitic use will think twice, given this decision,” he said.
This case highlights the importance of respecting creativity and giving proper credit in the music industry. Originality matters, no matter where the inspiration comes from.
