In The Spotlight: Billboard reports that Sony Music Entertainment has settled its copyright lawsuit against the producers of “Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody,” ending a dispute over unpaid licensing fees for 24 of the late singer’s recordings used in the 2022 biopic.
Financial Stakes Revealed: According to Musicbusinessworldwide, the lawsuit, filed in February 2024, sought minimum damages of $3.6 million, calculated at $150,000 per violation under U.S. copyright law. The biopic, which grossed approximately $60 million worldwide, featured iconic tracks including “I Will Always Love You” and “How Will I Know.”
- Settlement terms remain confidential
- Case dismissed with prejudice
Complex Dispute Detailed: The conflict arose when producers allegedly failed to honor a sync licensing agreement signed just days before the film’s December 2022 release. Anthem Films cited pending Massachusetts tax credits for the delay, while Black Label Media reportedly refused to authorize payment.
Legal Precedent Set: The settlement, filed November 18 in California’s Central District Court, reinforces the music industry’s stance on protecting valuable catalogs. Houston’s legacy, including over 220 million records sold, remains a significant asset requiring proper licensing.
Industry Impact Continues: This resolution highlights the complex relationship between film production and music licensing, particularly in biographical projects where artist catalogs play crucial roles.
