The music industry is no stranger to controversies, but a recent ruling in Brazil has sent shockwaves through global streaming platforms. A judge in Rio de Janeiro’s sixth commercial court has ordered British pop icon Adele’s song “”Million Years Ago”” to be pulled worldwide following allegations of plagiarism brought by Brazilian composer Toninho Geraes.
The case highlights an ongoing dispute that pits one of the world’s biggest pop stars against a classic samba tune and has sparked significant debate about cultural and musical ownership.
Geraes claims Adele’s 2015 ballad copies elements of his samba song “”Mulheres”” (“Women”), recorded by Martinho da Vila in 1995. His lawsuit demands songwriting credit, $160,000 in moral damages, and compensation for lost royalties.
The injunction issued by Judge Victor Torres requires Adele’s record labels, Sony and Universal, to immediately cease all use, distribution, and monetization of the song, with non-compliance fines set at $8,000 per violation.
Fredimio Trotta, Geraes’ attorney, called the ruling a pivotal moment for Brazilian music. He expressed hope that it would deter future cases of what he describes as “parasitic use” of Brazilian compositions by international artists and producers. The injunction marks one of the rare instances where local courts have flexed their authority on a global scale.
This is not the first time Adele has faced plagiarism accusations over “Million Years Ago.” In 2015, Turkish fans drew parallels between the track and “”Acilara Tutunmak”” (“Clinging to Pain”), a 1985 song by Kurdish artist Ahmet Kaya. Kaya’s widow defended Adele at the time, suggesting it was unlikely she had copied the track intentionally.
Brazil’s ruling, however, has teeth thanks to the country’s adherence to the “Berne Convention”, an international copyright treaty ensuring cross-border protection of intellectual property. As the decision takes effect, it places streaming platforms, radio stations, and even television broadcasters worldwide on alert to comply or face penalties.
Beyond the immediate case, this ruling could ripple through the global music industry. Trotta argues that it will force international artists and producers to reconsider their approach when incorporating foreign influences, particularly from countries like Brazil with rich and distinctive musical traditions.
Whether this case establishes a precedent or fades into a one-off controversy remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly brings attention to the complexities of global music rights.
Sony and Universal have not issued detailed statements but are expected to appeal the decision. Meanwhile, Adele, known for maintaining a low profile during legal disputes, has yet to comment. For now, the future of “Million Years Ago” on streaming services hangs in the balance, as legal teams on both sides gear up for what promises to be a prolonged battle.
