Summer Walker is facing a legal battle with Interscope Records, a label under UMG. In August, Walker reportedly sent a letter to the label announcing her decision to terminate their agreement. Now, according to Rolling Stone, Interscope and UMG have filed a lawsuit against the singer.
The labels claim Walker still owes them two studio albums and an EP under the terms of their agreement. Two of her previous projects were not included in fulfilling those contractual obligations. UMG is now seeking more than $50 million in damages.
“As a direct and proximate result of Walker’s failure to deliver the undelivered recordings, UMG has suffered and will continue to suffer damages, including but not limited to the profits it would have received had Walker completed all her obligations under the agreement,” the lawsuit states. “UMG is entitled to recover damages in excess of $50,000,000 for the undelivered recordings.”
Walker’s deal with Interscope has often been described as “brutal” by industry insiders. Her 16 percent royalty rate is considered relatively low, while her $100K advances are also on the lower end. Unsurprisingly, Walker’s legal team has pushed back against the lawsuit.
“While we are disappointed that Interscope has chosen to pursue litigation, we are confident in Summer’s legal position and her right to challenge the continued enforceability of her recording contract with Interscope,” Walker’s attorney Keith Moten told Rolling Stone. “We intend to vigorously defend against Interscope’s claims and pursue appropriate legal relief.”
This legal dispute could have significant implications for the music industry, particularly for creatives and artists if Walker loses the case. The situation is worth watching closely as the legal battle unfolds.
