Judge Halts Spotify's Damages Claim Against Kobalt in Eminem Copyright Case
A federal judge has temporarily halted Spotify's pursuit of damages from Kobalt in the ongoing litigation involving Eminem's publisher Eight Mile Style. The decision comes after Spotify's recent victory in a long-running royalties dispute.
Judge Aleta A. Trauger's order responds to Kobalt's request to reconsider the judgment or pause the damages payment pending appeal. The case, which began over five years ago, has evolved through multiple legal phases.
Key Developments:
- Initially, Eight Mile Style filed an infringement complaint against Spotify
- Harry Fox Agency was added as a second defendant in 2020
- Spotify named Kobalt as a third-party defendant, arguing they should be responsible for any royalties and damages
Wooden gavel on marble surface
The Court's Recent Decisions:
- Partially approved Spotify's motion for summary judgment despite noting "seriously flawed" copyright handling
- Validated Spotify's indemnification clause against Kobalt
- Temporarily stayed Spotify's motion for "substantial attorney's fees"
Central Legal Question: The case now hinges on whether Kobalt must indemnify Spotify for compositions where Kobalt lacked U.S. mechanical licensing authority but maintained other administrative rights (non-U.S. mechanical licensing, worldwide synch licensing).
Next Steps: The judge has ordered judgment to be entered on all claims except those favoring Spotify against Kobalt, setting the stage for appeal proceedings.
Eminem wearing gray hoodie, close-up
Eminem performing on stage