Renowned musician Kanye West is under legal fire following accusations of “blatant theft” involving Donna Summer’s iconic track, “I Feel Love”. The controversy stems from West’s song, “Good (Don’t Die)”, featured on his latest album, Vultures 1, which reportedly samples Summer’s 1977 hit.
Donna’s husband, Bruce Sudano, has come forward, asserting that Kanye and his collaborator Ty Dolla $ign unlawfully appropriated the hook from “I Feel Love” after their request for permission was expressly denied. Sudano claims this denial was due to the estate’s reluctance to be associated with West’s controversial past.
In response to the alleged infringement, Sudano has filed a lawsuit against West and Ty Dolla $ign, alleging they “shamelessly” copied key elements of Summer’s song, releasing it to the public without legal authorization. Sudano, who serves as the executor of his late wife’s estate, argues that Donna’s heirs, including her three daughters, are entitled to “maximum” damages for the unauthorized use of her work.
In a statement to Rolling Stone, Sudano affirmed his commitment to protecting Donna’s copyright, signaling his determination to pursue legal recourse against West and his collaborators.
The lawsuit marks a significant legal battle in the music industry, highlighting the importance of safeguarding artists’ intellectual property rights amidst the evolving landscape of sampling and creative expression.
