Chlöe Bailey, the rising R&B star, is embroiled in a $15 million lawsuit concerning her 2024 album, "Trouble In Paradise." The lawsuit, filed by songwriter Melvin Moore (4Rest), alleges copyright infringement and raises critical questions about creative credit and compensation in the music industry.
Released on August 9, 2024, through Parkwood Entertainment and Columbia Records, "Trouble In Paradise" marked a significant artistic statement for Chlöe. Despite its limited commercial success, the album, featuring singles "FYS" and "Boy Bye," showcased her artistic evolution and independence. The 16-track project, spanning various genres, was lauded for its raw intensity and fearless confidence, as Chlöe asserted control over her narrative.
Melvin Moore claims he was "exploited" during the creation of tracks like "Same Lingerie," "Favorite," and "Might As Well." His lawsuit names Chlöe Bailey, Sony Music, Parkwood Entertainment, and Columbia Records as defendants, accusing them of failing to properly credit or compensate him for his contributions. The lawsuit alleges fraudulent misrepresentation and violations of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA), seeking $5 million in damages for each song and an additional $150,000 for each infringement. In his 33-page complaint, Moore emphasizes the need for fair compensation for creative contributors.
This lawsuit arrives as Chlöe Bailey navigates her burgeoning music career and high-profile relationship with Burna Boy. Despite the ongoing legal challenges, she remains focused, attributing her artistic endeavors to her faith. In an interview on Audacy’s V-103 podcast, she stated, "I just choose to ignore [the backlash]. Everything I’m doing is ordained by God, and I’m walking in my purpose."
Melvin Moore is a recognized songwriter with credits on hits by G-Eazy, Usher, Ty Dolla $ign, and Kanye West. His lawsuit highlights the ongoing issue of songwriters feeling undervalued in the music industry.
Tiffany Red, an advocate with the Songwriters & Composers Guild, has voiced her support for Moore on social media, highlighting the struggles faced by songwriters. In a January 8 post on Instagram, she criticized Chlöe Bailey's legal team for dismissing Moore's demands for fair compensation and master royalty points.
Parkwood Entertainment, founded by Beyoncé in 2008, is also named in the lawsuit. The company, which also manages Chlöe's sister, Halle Bailey, is known for its influential projects, including Beyoncé’s visual album "Lemonade" and the upcoming "Cowboy Carter Tour."
Moore’s lawsuit against Chlöe Bailey and her associates is a battle for financial compensation and a call for greater recognition of songwriters' contributions. The outcome of this case could significantly impact industry practices regarding creative credit and compensation.
