Judge determines expertise to assess similarity between songs; samba singer gets emotional during audience
The court case involving Toninho Geraes and Adele won another chapter this Thursday (19), in a hearing conducted by the judge Victor Torresfrom the 6th Business Court of Rio de Janeiro. The Brazilian samba singer accuses the British singer of plagiarism in the song Million Years agowhich, according to him, would have similar excerpts to the song Women.
During the conciliation meeting, it was expected that the record company Universal Music would present an agreement proposal, but, according to Toninho’s defense, no offer was made. The absence of Adele and her producer Greg Kurstin, co-writer of the track, also contributed to the climate of discontent.
“I thought it was a mockery”said Deborah Sztajnberg, Toninho’s lawyer. “They did not present any settlement proposal and did not even have power of attorney to represent Adele and Greg.”
During the hearing, which lasted around four hours, the samba singer became emotional when telling his version of the story to the judge. Toninho, 62 years old, had a crying fit and had to be calmed down by his legal team.
Determination of expertise
The judge ordered that an examination be carried out to verify the existence of plagiarism. Until then, the process only relied on reports presented by the parties involved. The analysis will be carried out by a professor from the National School of Music at UFRJ, who will compare the materials provided by both parties.
Although a preliminary decision determined the removal of Million Years ago on digital platforms, the music remains available. Failure to comply with the injunction would result in a fine of R$50,000.
The preliminary expert opinion should be presented after the judicial recess, but in the meantime, the case remains without significant progress. “They massacred a 62-year-old man and still leave us with no prospect of resolution”said Toninho’s lawyer.
Universal Music did not comment on the case.
Source: Rollingstone
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.
