The lawsuit, filed in 2023, claimed that “Real Love” illegally took elements from the song “Why Did You Do It” by the 1980s funk group Poussez!. The complaint was based on the premise that the two tracks shared a similar musical loop. However, the legal proceedings took a clear turn when Judge Lewis Kaplan made a definitive ruling. In his decision, he stated, with no room for ambiguity, that the two songs “do not sound the same.” This aural judgment was the key factor in the case’s dismissal, as it directly undermined the central claim of a copyright violation.
For decades, the practice of sampling has been a core element of hip-hop and R&B production. While many artists license samples, a number of high-profile legal battles have created a complicated legal landscape. This recent ruling provides a clear precedent. The judge’s decision highlights the legal principle that a copyright claim must be based on a “substantial similarity,” not just a vague resemblance. In this case, the court determined that the songs’ differences outweighed any alleged similarities, supporting Mary J. Blige’s position and allowing her to focus on her artistry.
The outcome of this lawsuit sends a strong message to the music industry. It affirms that not every sonic similarity constitutes a copyright violation. The decision protects artists from frivolous lawsuits, giving them a greater sense of security in their creative process. For Mary J. Blige, Universal Music Corp., and her legal team, the ruling is a resounding vindication of the integrity of “Real Love,” a track that has remained a beloved classic for over 30 years.
About the Author
