Rick Ross Sues LMFAO Over ‘Party Rock Anthem’
Is imitation the sincerest form of flattery? Rick Ross doesn't think so. The rapper is suing rhyming duo LMFAO over their 'Party Rock Anthem,' which he thinks copies him.
The Hollywood Reporter reports that Ross is taking LMFAO to court for copyright infringement for their 2011 hit song 'Party Rock Anthem.' The Miami rhymer believes that the song's line, "Every day I'm shufflin'" copies his lyric "Everyday I'm hustlin'" from his 2006 smash 'Hustlin.'
According to the lawsuit filed in Florida federal court: "The use of 'Hustlin'' in 'Party Rock Anthem' is readily apparent, despite the slight change from 'Everyday I’m hustlin' …' to 'Everyday I'm shufflin' …' and constitutes, inter alia, the creation of an unauthorized derivative work."
Furthermore, the 'Mastermind' creator feels that LMFAO's lyrics are "performed in a manner to sound like" Ross' own" and thus, "is an obvious attempt to capitalize on the fame and success of Hustlin'."
'Party Rock Anthem' has sold over 7.5 million copies and been used in a variety of commercials, ads and video games.
Per the plaintiffs, LMFAO has been made aware of the alleged infringement but have done nothing to stop it. Rick is seeking an injunction and maximum statutory damages.
Take a Listen to Rick Ross' 'Hustlin'' & LMFAO's 'Party Rock Anthem'