50 Cent has survived gun battles, even bullet wounds to the head ““ but, most recently in the fight of his life ““ he has once again triumphed over his enemies in a copyright lawsuit. Luther Campbell, formerly the front-man for 2 Live Crew, sued 50 Cent in hopes of making a quick buck. Campbell alleged that 50 had stolen the opening line for “In Da Club,” from Campbell.
The judge ultimately dismissed the case stating that the phrase in question was a “common, unoriginal, and non-copyright-able element of the song” and was hence not entitled to protection under current copyright laws. Ouch.
Not only did the judge side with 50, he insinuated that Campbell was a hack and should take a walk. The judge explained how despite the opening phrases of the two songs, the relevant phrase Campbell has been whining about only represents 11-seconds of a 3+ minute song. And, since the judge believed that no reasonable jury could possibly conclude otherwise, the judge dismissed the case.
The phrase in question happened to be: “Go shorty, it’s your birthday.” Campbell’s song “Still a Freak for Life” contained the line “Go Sheila, it’s your birthday.”
MusicVixen says...
Music Vixen Says: Such is the price you pay for fame "“ washed up celebrities come sniffing around, looking for a buck, trying to mug you with a lawsuit.
