In the latest unexpected turn of events, a Brazilian court has barred Adele’s Million Years Ago from being aired worldwide on all radio and online streaming sites. The judge’s verdict comes after Brazilian musician Toninho Geraes accused her of copying several parts from his 1996 hit song Mulheres, which featured Martinho da Vila as the main artist.
Geraes is suing for $160,000 in damages, lost royalties, and demands songwriting credit on Adele’s 2015 track. Judge Victor Torres backed the claims, warning Sony and Universal’s Brazilian subsidiaries of $8,000 fines for every act of non-compliance.
The case has generated intense debate among fans and industry onlookers, who question whether Adele’s track borrowed too heavily from the Brazilian classic. The world waits as Adele and her team decide their next move.