A Brazilian court has ordered Adele’s song Million Years Ago removed globally from streaming platforms and other channels over plagiarism allegations by Brazilian composer Toninho Geraes.
The injunction, issued by Judge Victor Torres of Rio de Janeiro’s 6th Commercial Court, threatens Sony Music and Universal Music with fines of $8,000 per violation if they fail to comply.
Geraes claims the 2015 track plagiarizes his samba classic Mulheres (Women), recorded in 1995 by Martinho da Vila. He is seeking royalties, $160,000 in damages, and songwriting credit.
“This is a milestone for Brazilian music, often used without proper credit,” said Fredimio Trotta, Geraes’ lawyer, adding that global broadcasters and streaming platforms will be alerted.
The case underscores Brazil’s commitment to international copyright protections under the Berne Convention. Sony and Universal may appeal, but the injunction stands as a warning to foreign artists about exploiting Brazilian music.
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Million Years Ago previously faced plagiarism claims in 2015 for its resemblance to a song by Kurdish singer Ahmet Kaya.