In a Los Angeles federal courtroom, a damages expert representing Artist Revenue Advocates (ARA) testified that Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, owes over $500,000 for allegedly using an unauthorized sound recording in an early version of his Grammy-winning song “Hurricane.” The expert asserted that Ye utilized the track to attract fans to a lucrative listening party.
The dispute centers on the instrumental track “MSD PT2,” created in 2018 by producers DJ Khalil (Khalil Abdul-Rahman), Sam Barsh, Dan Seeff, and Josh Mease. The plaintiffs allege that Ye incorporated this recording without permission during a 2021 listening event for his album “Donda” at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium. ([hot97.com](https://www.hot97.com/news/ye-kanye-west-hit-with-copyright-lawsuit-over-2018-instrumental-track-at-listening-party/?utm_source=openai))
During the trial, DJ Khalil recounted his initial excitement upon learning that Ye was interested in using “MSD PT2.” However, after attempts to secure compensation reached a “dead end,” he and his fellow producers sought assistance from ARA to pursue their claims. ([law360.com](https://www.law360.com/articles/2474096?utm_source=openai))
Ye took the stand to defend himself, stating that he followed standard procedures to clear the sample and emphasized his generosity in crediting collaborators. He expressed frustration, suggesting that individuals often attempt to exploit his fame for financial gain. ([law360.com](https://www.law360.com/articles/2474655/ye-testifies-in-ip-suit-that-people-take-advantage-of-him?utm_source=openai))
The plaintiffs are seeking damages amounting to $564,046, calculated based on revenues from ticket sales, merchandise, streaming rights, and related apparel associated with the listening event. ([aceshowbiz.com](https://www.aceshowbiz.com/news/view/00256897.html?utm_source=openai))
Defense attorney Eduardo Martorell argued that the producers had distributed the track for placement opportunities, implying an industry-standard practice that allows artists to experiment with such recordings. He contended that compensation typically follows commercial release, not preliminary performances. ([hot97.com](https://www.hot97.com/news/ye-kanye-west-hit-with-copyright-lawsuit-over-2018-instrumental-track-at-listening-party/?utm_source=openai))
This case highlights the complexities of copyright law in the music industry, particularly concerning the use of samples and the expectations of compensation. The jury’s decision could set a precedent for how unauthorized use of sound recordings in promotional events is addressed legally.