Cordae faces $25 million lawsuit over collaborative album

Rapper Cordae and several music entities are facing a $25 million lawsuit filed by MMMG Inc. (operating as Art@WAR) in New York federal court. The lawsuit alleges breach of contract, copyright infringement, and tortious interference regarding Cordae’s upcoming collaborative album with Anderson .Paak, titled ‘Heavy Is the Crown’.

The legal dispute stems from an exclusive recording agreement signed in April 2018. MMMG claims it holds rights to recordings made during the contract term, as well as interests in touring, merchandise, and endorsements. The label alleges that the release of the single ‘A Good Day’ was unauthorized and proceeded despite cease-and-desist warnings issued in August.

Defendants named in the suit include Cordae, EMPIRE Distribution, APESHIT Inc., and Mass Appeal Records. MMMG is seeking damages broken down into $5 million for copyright infringement, $15 million for contract breaches, and $5 million for interference with contractual rights. The label is also seeking a court order that could potentially prevent the release or distribution of the disputed album, which is currently scheduled for October 23.