Adele is facing plagiarism allegations, this time concerning her 2015 song ‘Million Years Ago.’ The British singer is facing legal action from a Brazilian composer who claims the track bears striking similarities to one of his songs. A Brazilian court has issued a ruling on the case.
Here is everything you need to know about the plagiarism allegations against Adele.
Brazilian composer says Adele has copied his music
A Brazilian court has ordered a worldwide injunction against Adele’s 2015 song ‘Million Years Ago,’ in response to plagiarism accusations from composer Toninho Geraes. Geraes argues that the song’s melody closely resembles his samba classic Mulheres (Women), initially recorded by Martinho da Vila in 1995. The ruling is handed down by Judge Victor Torres in Rio de Janeiro. It orders Sony and Universal’s Brazilian branches to immediately stop distributing the song worldwide, including on streaming platforms. Failure to comply could result in fines of $8,000 per violation. However, the music companies can still appeal the decision.
He is seeking $160,000 in moral damages, lost royalties, and recognition as a co-writer on the track. Geraes’ attorney, Fredimio Trotta, hailed the ruling as a significant moment for Brazilian music, which he believes has often been appropriated by global artists. The lawyer said, “It is a landmark for Brazilian music, which… has often been copied to compose successful international hits.” (The Guardian) Trotta is working to ensure the ruling is enforced globally, notifying broadcasters and streaming services.
This is not the first time Million Years Ago has faced plagiarism accusations. In 2015, Turkish fans alleged the song resembled Acilara Tutunmak (Clinging to Pain) by Kurdish singer Ahmet Kaya. However, Kaya’s widow dismissed these claims, asserting that Adele would not intentionally copy another artist’s work.
Adele has yet to respond to the Brazilian lawsuit or the ongoing allegations. Moreover, despite the legal challenges, her team has not issued any official statement regarding the injunction or Geraes’ claims.
