Elvis and Eminem rights holders are suing Suno
Two new lawsuits target Suno
A group representing rights holders to Elvis Presley’s music and the publisher of some of Eminem’s biggest records have brought lawsuits against Suno. They claim the AI music company illegally creates music and lyrics that imitate the artists.
Presley lawyers allege commercial use
In their complaint, the Presley representatives say Suno has used artists’ identities, work, creativity and time to generate revenue. They argue that the company reproduces creative work without permission. The complaint also criticizes Suno’s approach to music generation, saying it can replicate in seconds work that takes years to develop.
Suno describes its safeguards
Suno spokesperson Cat McCormack said the company is intended to help people make original music, not exploit an artist’s name or likeness. McCormack said Suno bars prompts naming specific artists or songs and uses outside providers to screen uploaded audio and lyrics for possible misuse. McCormack said Suno is working to strengthen its protections and plans to add safeguards for artists and users.
More litigation is underway
The new cases follow a lawsuit filed in September by Jason Isbell and others. That case alleged Suno made imitations of the plaintiffs but did not directly allege copyright infringement. Suno is also facing lawsuits from Sony, UMG, Isbell, Reservoir Media and others.
Key points
- Presley music rights holders and an Eminem records publisher have sued Suno.
- The Presley suit alleges a violation of Tennessee’s ELVIS Act.
- Suno says it blocks prompts naming specific artists and songs.
- The company also faces suits from Sony, UMG, Isbell and Reservoir Media.