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Salt-N-Pepa's Copyright Lawsuit Dismissed by Federal Judge

1/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

The federal judge dismissed Salt-N-Pepa's lawsuit against Universal Music Group (UMG) over ownership of their early master recordings, including the hit "Push It".
Judge Denise Cote ruled on January 8 that Salt-N-Pepa did not own the copyrights because the recordings were works made for hire.
Salt-N-Pepa said they will appeal, asserting rights under the Copyright Act.
UMG expressed satisfaction with the ruling and openness to an amicable resolution.

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Story summary

The federal judge dismissed Salt-N-Pepa's lawsuit against Universal Music Group (UMG) over ownership of their early master recordings, including the hit "Push It".
Judge Denise Cote ruled on January 8 that Salt-N-Pepa did not own the copyrights because the recordings were works made for hire.
Salt-N-Pepa said they will appeal, asserting rights under the Copyright Act.
UMG expressed satisfaction with the ruling and openness to an amicable resolution.