Dua Lipa Wins Copyright Lawsuit Over ‘Levitating’
Legal Victory for Pop Star Dua Lipa
British pop sensation Dua Lipa has emerged victorious in a high-profile copyright lawsuit centered on her hit single “Levitating.” A New York court ruled in her favor, dismissing claims that the song had infringed on the melody of the 1979 disco track “Wiggle and Giggle All Night.” The case, which had captured headlines in both music and legal circles, concluded with the judge declaring that the melodies in question were too generic to be protected by copyright law.
The Lawsuit’s Claims and Context
The lawsuit was originally filed by songwriters L. Russell Brown and Sandy Linzer, who argued that “Levitating” bore a striking resemblance to the melody of their disco-era track. The plaintiffs contended that the similarities were “substantial and unmistakable,” alleging that Lipa’s team had access to the original song and used its core melodic structure without permission. The case joined a string of recent copyright battles in the music industry, where the line between influence and infringement continues to be debated.
Court Ruling: Melodic Elements Too Generic
In dismissing the case, the judge ruled that the shared elements between the two songs were “too commonplace to merit copyright protection.” He noted that similar melodic sequences had been used in countless compositions over centuries, making it nearly impossible to claim exclusive rights. “This pattern is not original to the plaintiffs’ song,” the court declared. The ruling sets a precedent for how courts might treat future cases involving general melodic similarities.
Implications for the Music Industry
The court’s decision has sparked widespread discussion among artists, producers, and legal experts. With the music industry increasingly facing lawsuits over alleged similarities, the ruling in Lipa’s case could help establish clearer boundaries. Many in the creative community have welcomed the verdict, viewing it as a protective measure against frivolous litigation. It underscores the idea that musical creativity often involves shared elements that evolve over time.
Dua Lipa’s Response to the Verdict
Dua Lipa has remained relatively quiet during the legal proceedings but issued a statement following the ruling, expressing relief and gratitude. “I’ve always believed in the originality of my work and the integrity of my creative team,” she said. Lipa thanked her legal counsel and fans for their support, calling the decision a “win for songwriters everywhere who create from a place of passion and authenticity.”
A History of ‘Levitating’s’ Popularity
Released in 2020 as part of her “Future Nostalgia” album, “Levitating” quickly became one of the standout tracks of Dua Lipa’s career. The song peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and enjoyed international acclaim, with its retro-pop flair and infectious chorus. It became a cultural touchstone, featured in commercials, TikTok trends, and global playlists. Its popularity, however, may have made it a target for legal scrutiny.
Similar Cases in Recent Years
The lawsuit against Dua Lipa is one of many involving accusations of copyright infringement in the music industry. Recent years have seen artists like Ed Sheeran, Katy Perry, and Robin Thicke taken to court over similar claims. While some have resulted in costly settlements or rulings against artists, others—like this one—have reinforced the difficulty of proving ownership over basic musical patterns. The mixed outcomes highlight the legal grey areas around melody and inspiration.
Experts Weigh In on the Outcome
Musicologists and copyright attorneys have pointed to the Lipa ruling as an important moment for the industry. Many agree that while copyright laws must protect intellectual property, they should not stifle creativity by policing common musical phrases. “There’s a balance between protecting songwriters and allowing artistic freedom,” said one legal analyst. The decision, they argue, may encourage artists to innovate without the constant fear of litigation.
Impact on Dua Lipa’s Career
While the lawsuit had little visible impact on Lipa’s momentum, the ruling helps clear the path for future releases free from legal distractions. She has continued to grow her brand globally, working on her third studio album and branching into fashion and film. With the legal cloud lifted, Lipa’s team can now fully focus on what’s next—potentially building on the success of “Levitating” with even bolder creative projects.
Looking Ahead: A Win for Creative Freedom
The outcome of this case may resonate far beyond Dua Lipa’s personal career. It underscores the need for fair legal standards in a world where musical ideas are increasingly interconnected. For many in the industry, it’s a reaffirmation that inspiration need not be hindered by legal fear. As one industry executive put it, “If we can’t share a common melody, we lose the essence of what music is meant to be—a shared, evolving experience.”
