DistroKid Removes Songs After UMG Copyright Suit, Catching Independent Artists in Crossfire
DistroKid, the leading platform for music distribution, has taken down multiple recordings following copyright complaints from Universal Music Group (UMG). This issue impacted independent musicians, including Nashville singer-songwriter Josh Sahunta, whose 2022 album Mellowdrama was identified. Sahunta discovered that his album was grayed out on Spotify and had been removed from Apple Music and YouTube. DistroKid issued a copyright strike, which resulted in his royalties being frozen and future releases being obstructed. After reaching out for assistance, Sahunta detailed his ordeal on Instagram, connecting with other artists facing similar challenges. In September, UMG filed a lawsuit against DistroKid for alleged deceptive practices and copyright violations. DistroKid is contesting these allegations and striving to reduce disruptions. As of October 12, much of Mellowdrama is still inaccessible.
Key facts
- DistroKid removed recordings from streaming platforms after UMG filed a copyright suit.
- Nashville singer-songwriter Josh Sahunta's 2022 album Mellowdrama was flagged for infringement and removed from Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube.
- DistroKid issued a copyright strike, froze Sahunta's royalties, and potentially hindered future releases.
- UMG sued DistroKid in September, accusing it of deceptive business practices and copyright infringement, including flooding platforms with AI-generated content.
- DistroKid VP Amanda Ferri said a 'very small number' of recordings were removed in response to UMG claims.
- UMG's lawsuit highlighted accounts like 'Lofi Chill' and 'Mellow Vibes Radio,' claiming most tracks are outputs from AI song generator Suno.
- Artist manager Joel Gouveia believes DistroKid used an algorithm or AI-based program for mass takedowns.
- As of Monday, Oct. 12, much of Mellowdrama remains unavailable on major streaming platforms.
Entities
Artists
- Josh Sahunta
- Amanda Ferri
- Joel Gouveia
Institutions
- DistroKid
- Universal Music Group
- Spotify
- Apple Music
- YouTube
- Rolling Stone
- The Verge
- Suno
- CVC Capital Partners
Locations
- Nashville
- United States