A federal judge has declined to rule on a major copyright case involving Reggaeton's signature rhythm, sending the dispute to a jury trial.
Judge André Birotte Jr. issued the ruling on July 2 in a lawsuit filed by Cleveland “Clevie” Browne and the heirs of Wycliffe “Steely” Johnson. The case alleges that nearly 2,000 tracks by more than 150 artists copied the 1989 song “Fish Market.”
The plaintiffs sought a summary judgment that “Fish Market” originated the dembow rhythm used in Reggaeton. Birotte found that expert opinions on both sides presented credible but conflicting views, making the issue unsuitable for judicial decision.
The lawsuit now moves to a second phase focused on whether the defendants had access to the song and copied it. Artists named include Bad Bunny, Karol G, Pitbull, Drake, Daddy Yankee, Luis Fonsi and Justin Bieber.
Stephen Doniger, a lawyer for Steely & Clevie, said the team was pleased the court largely rejected the defendants’ arguments but disappointed it did not grant summary judgment. The defendants’ legal team did not immediately comment.