Salt-N-Pepa Lawsuit Against UMG Dismissed

Salt-N-Pepa's lawsuit against Universal Music Group has been dismissed by a federal court. The rap duo had accused the company of holding their music "hostage" by preventing them from reclaiming intellectual property rights 35 years after release, asserting a violation of the Copyright Act.

District Judge Denise Cote in the Southern District of New York granted UMG's motion to dismiss the case, ruling that the lawsuit failed to state a claim. A UMG spokesperson stated they were gratified by the dismissal and that prior attempts were made to resolve the matter amicably.

Despite the court's decision, UMG expressed openness to future reconciliation, aiming to amplify Salt-N-Pepa's legacy. The duo, inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in November, had previously highlighted the removal of their music from streaming services as part of their broader fight for artist ownership and industry fairness.