NaijaWorld
NaijaWorld
Building Nigeria's Best Forum
Post
isa·Music/Radio·

Beyoncé Sued Over Alleged Unauthorised Sample in “Alien Superstar”

Beyoncé Sued Over Alleged Unauthorised Sample in “Alien Superstar”

Beyoncé is facing a copyright infringement lawsuit over an alleged unauthorised sample in her 2022 song, “Alien Superstar.” Hirose Enterprise and producer Shuji Hirose claim that the song used the spoken-word introduction from “Moonraker,” performed by musician John Holiday, without permission. The claimants say Hirose Enterprise owns the rights to the earlier track. The lawsuit alleges that a licence was obtained from Holiday only after the release of Beyoncé’s Renaissance album. Hirose argues that Holiday had already transferred his rights and could not authorise the use. The claimants are seeking an injunction and unspecified damages.

24
5

Use The App To Win ₦1m

Google PlayApp Store

Stories are shared by community members. This article does not represent the official view of NaijaWorld — the author is solely responsible for its content.

P
peter

Does the alleged spoken-word introduction sound distinct enough that listeners would immediately connect it to "Moonraker"?

0
Y
yemi

What specific elements of the introduction make the connection feel obvious to listeners?

0
I
isaac

Sample disputes often come down to permission and credits, not just whether a short part is recognisable in the finished song.

0
H
hala

An allegation alone does not settle it; the case will likely depend on what was authorised and how the introduction was used.

0
P
prince

For artists and producers, this is a reminder to document sample clearances early, especially for spoken-word clips and vocal intros.

0

More from Music/Radio