Exclusive: Beyoncé, Jay-Z Sued for Copyright Infringement Over Song “Break My Soul”

Beyoncé and Jay-Z are no strangers to the spotlight, but this time, it’s not for a chart-topping hit or a glamorous red-carpet appearance. The power couple, along with Big Freedia and several others, are being sued by a group called “Da Showstoppaz.” The plaintiffs allege that song “Release A Wiggle” was unlawfully used in Beyoncé’s “Break My Soul” and Big Freedia’s “Explode.”

The Case of Da Showstoppaz vs. Beyoncé: Background and Allegations

Who’s Involved?

The plaintiffs are Tessa Avie, Keva Bourgeois, Henri Braggs, and Brian Clark, collectively known as “Da Showstoppaz.” They claim their song “Release A Wiggle” was used without permission in Beyoncé‘s hit “Break My Soul” and Big Freedia’s “Explode.” The defendants include Beyoncé, Big Freedia, Jay-Z, Parkwood Entertainment, Sony Music Entertainment, and more.

What Are They Claiming?

Da Showstoppaz say their song “Release A Wiggle,” which they created in 2002, was sampled without permission in Big Freedia’s “Explode” and later in Beyoncé’s “Break My Soul.” They argue that their unique phrases, melody, and musical arrangement were used without any authorization, acknowledgment, or payment.

Key Points of the Complaint

Infringement and Misappropriation:

The plaintiffs allege that Beyoncé and her team used parts of “Release A Wiggle” in “Break My Soul” and “Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé,” leading to huge success without giving credit to Da Showstoppaz. They say this is a clear case of copyright infringement and stealing their intellectual property.

Unfair Trade Practices:

The lawsuit also claims that Big Freedia violated the Louisiana Unfair Trade Practices Act by using the plaintiffs’ work without permission. This has supposedly caused serious financial and reputational damage to Da Showstoppaz.

Unjust Enrichment:

Da Showstoppaz argue that Beyoncé, Big Freedia, and their teams have made big bucks from their work without giving them any credit or compensation. Despite all the profits and awards, Da Showstoppaz say they haven’t seen a dime.

Copyright Law and Fair Use:

The plaintiffs argue that the defendants went way beyond fair use.