Drake accused of copying this demo
The music world is often a place of dazzling creative synergy, but sometimes, that synergy turns into a legal standoff. Recently, this tension played out in a high-profile copyright dispute involving global superstar Drake and songwriter Aviel Hirschfield over the hit track “Janice STFU“.
The controversy centers on the song’s iconic hook. Hirschfield alleges that he provided a vocal take, interpolating lyrics from Lykke Li, to production duo FnZ and other associates in hopes of reaching Drake. According to the songwriter’s filing, when the song was released, Drake performed the exact chorus that Hirschfield had recorded and sent, leading to claims of unauthorized use.
Hirschfield contends that the evidence, including metadata, will prove his recording predates Drake’s release. He sought not only a co-writing credit but also a retroactive split of the publishing royalties for the track.
However, the situation took a sharp turn when the demo in question leaked. A legal representative for Hirschfield confirmed that the leaked recording indeed matched the evidence submitted during the legal process.
Drake’s team responded swiftly and emphatically, vigorously denying the allegations. They stated that Drake has absolutely no connection or knowledge of Hirschfield and further claimed that the plaintiff had manipulated the metadata to forge evidence. The representatives issued a statement asserting that these claims are categorically and unequivocally denied.
The dispute highlights the complex and often fiercely guarded waters of intellectual property law within the music industry. While one party claims a history of collaboration and theft, the other insists on full legal exoneration and separation from the claims.
For those interested in hearing the song referenced in the dispute, the recording of the hook can be heard below:
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