Salt-N-Pepa, the legendary hip-hop duo, is making headlines for a different reason than their classic hits. Cheryl “Salt” James and Sandra “Pepa” Denton have taken a bold step by filing a lawsuit against Universal Music Group (UMG) to regain ownership of their own music. This legal battle reflects a broader struggle between older artists and major record labels over ownership of their work.
In a recent interview on Good Morning America, Salt didn’t hold back. She stated, “We have done all the things legally to get our copyrights back, but they’re just refusing.” At the heart of their case is a law that allows artists to regain ownership of their music after 35 years have passed. Given that Salt-N-Pepa’s career kicked off in the mid-80s, they believe it’s time to take back what is rightfully theirs.
Check out this article: Trick Daddy Says Women Over 35 Are Damaged Goods
However, UMG is pushing back, saying that the rights to the music don’t apply to the artists because a producer signed them away long ago. Pepa pointed out the unfairness in the contracts they had back then, emphasizing, “We didn’t have that control in the ’80s. And so to be held to a contract from 1985 and 40 years later is ridiculous.” Salt expressed frustration as well, saying, “They’re just holding our rights hostage.” UMG has recently attempted to dismiss the lawsuit, arguing that Salt-N-Pepa lacks a basis for their claims. Nevertheless, the duo is determined to fight back and not let their past define their present.
This dispute is part of a larger movement in which many older artists are attempting to reclaim control of their music from the companies that once owned it. For Salt-N-Pepa, this fight is about gaining the respect and recognition they deserve for their contributions to the music industry. The case is still in progress, Salt-N-Pepa is standing its ground, and is committed to seeking justice.
