Judge Rules in Favor of Brazilian Samba Legend, Orders Nationwide Ban on Streaming Platforms
Adele’s heartfelt ballad “Million Years Ago,” from her 2015 album 25, has been thrust into controversy following allegations of plagiarism. A Brazilian court has ordered a nationwide ban on the track, citing similarities to Martinho da Vila’s iconic samba song, Mulheres.
The decision, handed down by Judge Victor Torres of Rio de Janeiro’s Sixth Commercial Court, mandates that the song be removed from all streaming platforms and global outlets in Brazil. Adele’s record labels, Sony Music Entertainment and Universal Music, face a fine of $8,000 per act of non-compliance with the injunction, according to Agence France-Presse.
The Case Against “Million Years Ago”
The lawsuit centers on claims that Adele’s track, co-written with producer Greg Kurstin, closely mirrors elements of Mulheres, a beloved samba classic by Martinho da Vila. The ruling asserts that the similarities are significant enough to warrant immediate action to prevent further distribution of the song in Brazil.
This marks a rare legal challenge for Adele, whose music has consistently been celebrated for its originality and emotional depth.
Adele’s Residency Amidst Controversy
Despite the legal battle, Adele has continued her successful Weekends with Adele residency in Las Vegas. Performances from the residency, including her November 2022 shows, have been widely acclaimed, drawing massive crowds and cementing her status as one of the world’s leading musical artists.
A Landmark Decision in the Music Industry
The ruling could have broader implications for global music copyright enforcement. By targeting the Brazilian subsidiaries of Adele’s labels, the court aims to ensure adherence to the injunction across streaming platforms.
For Martinho da Vila, the decision underscores the ongoing struggle of artists to protect their intellectual property in an era of rapid digital distribution.
Next Steps for Adele and Her Team
Neither Adele nor her representatives have publicly commented on the ruling as of yet. However, legal experts predict that her labels will likely appeal the decision, given the potential ramifications for her reputation and catalog.
The ban on “Million Years Ago” has ignited debates in the music industry and among fans about the fine line between inspiration and infringement. While Adele’s artistry remains undisputed, this case is a reminder of the complexities involved in creating music that resonates across cultures and generations.
As this legal battle unfolds, fans worldwide are left wondering whether the soulful track will make its way back to streaming platforms or remain a contentious chapter in Adele’s illustrious career.
