GMR and Music Choice Settle U.S. Copyright Licensing Dispute
Global Music Rights and Music Choice have dismissed a copyright infringement lawsuit after reaching a resolution over the unlicensed performance of GMR's catalog.
A copyright infringement lawsuit filed in June by Global Music Rights (GMR), a United States performance rights organization, against television music service Music Choice has been dismissed after the parties reached a resolution.
Lawsuit Details
The complaint, lodged in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California, accused Music Choice of “willful copyright infringement” for continuing to perform GMR’s repertoire after its license expired. Music Choice had been a licensee for years but allowed the agreement to lapse, and despite indicating it would stop using the works, it did not do so.
GMR stated it pursued litigation only “as a last resort” and made “multiple good-faith license renewal offers,” all of which Music Choice rejected.
“Even after receiving formal notice of its unauthorized status and infringement notices from GMR’s outside counsel, Music Choice kept performing GMR songs without authorization,” the lawsuit read.
GMR sought a permanent injunction and statutory damages of up to $150,000 per infringed work, which could have totaled approximately $14.25 million. The case’s dismissal signals that the two sides have reached an agreement.
GMR’s Songwriter Roster
Founded in 2013 by music executive Irving Azoff, GMR represents more than 175 songwriters and publishers. Its catalog includes Bruce Springsteen, Pearl Jam, Jimmy Buffett, John Mayer, Billie Eilish and Finneas, Smokey Robinson, Drake, The Who, The Eagles, and Bruno Mars. GMR is one of four performance rights organizations operating in the United States, alongside ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC.
Azoff’s Broader Career
Irving Azoff has launched several labels and ventures, including Full Moon Records, Giant Records, and Giant Music. He serves as chairman and CEO of Azoff MSG Entertainment, a joint venture with James Dolan’s Madison Square Garden Company. Previously, he was chairman and CEO of Ticketmaster, executive chairman of Live Nation Entertainment, and CEO of Front Line Management, where he remains chairman.
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