British singer Adele’s hit track Million Years Ago (2015) is at the center of a major plagiarism controversy, with a Brazilian court ordering its removal worldwide. The lawsuit was filed by Brazilian composer Toninho Geraes, who alleges that the song plagiarized his samba classic Mulheres (1995).
The preliminary injunction issued by Judge Victor Torres of Rio de Janeiro’s 6th Commercial Court directs Sony Music Entertainment and Universal Music to halt all use, reproduction, or distribution of Adele’s track across streaming platforms, radio, and television. The court imposed a fine of $8,000 per violation for non-compliance.
Geraes claims that Million Years Ago contains melodic elements nearly identical to his samba song Mulheres, famously recorded by Martinho da Vila in 1995.
The composer initially attempted to resolve the matter amicably by seeking negotiations with Adele’s team. When this failed, Geraes proceeded with legal action, demanding:
His lawyer, Fredimio Trotta, described the case as a “landmark” for Brazilian music, highlighting its importance in protecting Brazilian artists from “parasitic use” of their work.
Trotta emphasized that the decision serves as a warning to international artists and labels:
“This injunction ensures that foreign singers and producers who look to exploit Brazilian music will think twice.”
The legal ruling aligns with Brazil’s commitment to the Berne Convention, which safeguards international copyright laws.
This is not the first time Adele’s Million Years Ago has faced plagiarism claims. In 2015, Turkish music fans alleged similarities between Adele’s song and the 1985 track Acılara Tutunmak (Clinging to Pain) by Kurdish singer Ahmet Kaya.
While Sony Music Brazil declined to comment, and Universal Music Brazil has yet to respond, the ruling allows Adele’s team to appeal the injunction. Meanwhile, broadcasters and streaming platforms worldwide are expected to comply with the court’s decision.
As the case unfolds, it raises broader questions about copyright protection and the influence of Brazilian music on global hits.
