Many New York artists dream of becoming famous, but even if that doesn’t happen, they can still make valuable contributions to the artistic world. When they aren’t a household name, they may feel as though they have fewer resources than someone who is well-known, especially in legal matters. However, copyright law exists to protect artists at all levels in a wide variety of mediums, and just because an artist isn’t famous doesn’t mean that his or her work can’t be protected. This is what a choreographer is attempting to prove in her lawsuit against singer Beyonce and her husband, rapper Jay-Z.
The choreographer alleges that the famous couple misused a monologue she voiced by not compensating her properly. She claims that she was interviewed about the subject of unconditional love when she was working as a choreographer for the two artists in 2018. She says that the intent was to use her words as part of a promotional video. However, the choreographer reports that her words were included on a joint album released by the couple.
Beyonce and Jay-Z now face a copyright infringement lawsuit over the monologue. The choreographer also reports that she was not allowed to have an attorney look over an agreement she signed prior to recording. She is requesting a writing credit as well as damages in her claim.
Most artists here in New York won’t have to deal with copyright law pertaining to someone famous allegedly misusing their creative work. However, that doesn’t mean they don’t need legal protection. Those who have concerns about their work being misused or used without permission may want to work with an experienced copyright law attorney.