The record company claims that the song ‘Mulheres’, composed by Toninho Geraes and known with the voice of Martinho da Vila, uses a musical cliché and that ‘Million Years Ago’, by Adele, is not plagiarism
THE Universal musicrecord label responsible for the artist Adele in Brazil, appealed the injunction Toninho Geraes who accuses the English of having plagiarized the song WomenIn Millions of years ago. The appeal, filed on Monday the 16th, states that both works use a “musical cliché”, which does not constitute copyright infringement.
The case is ongoing in the Court of Rio for infringement of copyright and intellectual property rights. The company’s lawyers explain this, according to Ancelmo Gois’ column on The globethat: “the similarities between the two works are due, in essence, to the fact that several songs use a musical cliché known as Chord Progression by the Circle of Fifths”.
“The granting of the injunction is disproportionate and causes reverse damage to the defendants, since the immediate suspension of the Millions of years ago will cause significant economic losses and would compromise the artistic freedom of the people involved”, continue the record company’s lawyers.
The music Women was composed by Toninho Geraes and became famous with the voice of Martinho da Vila. Evidence was attached to the trial that explains and proves the plagiarism alleged by the composer, including a video in which the singer Ju Vianna performs a musical overlap with both works (see the statement from Toninho’s lawyer here).
Currently, the circulation of Adele’s music has been banned in Brazil, under penalty of a fine of R$50,000 for improper use. However, the fine will only be enforced when music streaming platforms are notified of the legal action.
In an interview with National newspaperToninho explained that the intention was an agreement that recognized his co-authorship. “It seems that our country, our musicians, our works are at the mercy of anyone who wants to come and make a mess. We are a serious country. Therefore, our justice is serious. I believe that this was the first step was the decision now of Justice”, he added.
Check out the musical overlay used as evidence of plagiarism:
Source: Terra
Earl Johnson is a music writer at Gossipify, known for his in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the industry. A graduate of USC with a degree in Music, he brings years of experience and passion to his writing. He covers the latest releases and trends, always on the lookout for the next big thing in music.
