Travis Scott, Future, and SZA Face Copyright Lawsuit Over Alleged Lyric Theft

Audemars Piguet Faces Lawsuit Over Unauthorized Use of SZA‘s “TELEKENISIS” in Travis Scott Collaboration

Luxury watchmaker Audemars Piguet is embroiled in a legal battle stemming from the alleged unauthorized use of SZA’s song “TELEKENISIS” in a 2023 commercial campaign. The lawsuit, initially filed against Travis Scott, has now expanded to include the prestigious Swiss brand.

The core of the dispute centers on Audemars Piguet’s use of “TELEKENISIS” in a campaign promoting their partnership with travis Scott. Sources indicate that Audemars piguet did seek permission to utilize the track, but SZA explicitly denied their request. Despite this refusal, the commercial featuring “TELEKENISIS” was reportedly released.

The legal team representing Travis Scott, SZA, and Future, from McPherson LLP, is actively contesting the claims. They assert that the artists received express permission from Ye,who is described as a “joint author” of the work,granting him the authority to authorize its use. The defense is seeking a dismissal of the lawsuit.In their legal arguments, Scott’s representatives also challenged the validity of individual copyright claims, stating, “As a matter of law, lyrics cannot be copyrighted as a standalone work when created in tandem with, or as part of, an inseparable musical composition. Without a valid registration, plaintiffs cannot initiate or maintain a claim for infringement.”

Keith White, SZA’s attorney, expressed confidence in their position, telling Billboard, “We will file opposition papers within the next two weeks, and we fully expect Travis Scott’s motion to be summarily denied in short order.”

This legal development surfaces shortly after the release of Travis Scott’s album JackBoys 2 from Cactus Jack Records.

What legal evidence must Brian Irving present to definitively prove he legally owns the copyright to “Never Enough”?

The Core of the Copyright Claim

A meaningful copyright infringement lawsuit is currently unfolding, alleging that Travis Scott, Future, and SZA improperly used lyrics from an unpublished song, “Never Enough,” penned by songwriter Brian Irving. The lawsuit, filed in June 2024 and gaining traction in July 2025, centers around claims that lyrical elements from Irving’s work found their way into several high-profile tracks: Travis scott’s “MY EYES,” Future’s “WAIT FOR U” featuring Drake, and SZA’s “Shirt.”

The plaintiff, Brian Irving, alleges a direct connection facilitated through producer Jasper Cameron, who had access to “never Enough” and collaborated with all three artists. This isn’t simply about similar themes; the lawsuit specifies identical phrasing and lyrical structures, suggesting more than coincidence. Key terms being searched related to this case include “music copyright lawsuit,” “lyric theft,” and “Travis Scott legal issues.”

Specific Allegations: Song-by-Song Breakdown

The lawsuit details how Irving believes his lyrics were misappropriated. Here’s a breakdown:

Travis scott – “MY EYES”: The claim focuses on specific lines mirroring Irving’s unpublished work, alleging a substantial similarity in both phrasing and conceptual expression. The legal argument hinges on proving access and demonstrable copying.

Future ft. Drake – “WAIT FOR U”: Irving asserts that a core emotional sentiment and specific lyrical passages within “WAIT FOR U” directly originate from “Never Enough.” The lawsuit highlights the prominence of these allegedly copied lines within Future’s hit song.

SZA – “Shirt”: The lawsuit contends that SZA’s “Shirt” incorporates lyrical elements and thematic ideas that are strikingly similar to Irving’s original composition. This is particularly sensitive given SZA’s reputation for deeply personal and original songwriting.

Understanding Music Copyright Law

Music copyright is complex. It’s divided into two main components:

1. Copyright in the Musical Composition: This protects the melody, harmony, and lyrics of a song. This is what Irving is claiming was infringed upon.
2. Copyright in the Sound Recording: This protects the specific recorded performance of a song.

To win a copyright infringement case, a plaintiff must demonstrate:

Ownership of a Valid Copyright: Irving must prove he legally owns the copyright to “Never Enough.”

Copying: This can be proven through direct evidence (e.g., a witness) or circumstantial evidence (e.g.,substantial similarity and access). Substantial similarity doesn’t mean identical, but a degree of similarity that suggests copying. Access means the defendant had the prospect to hear the plaintiff’s work.

Damages: Irving must demonstrate financial harm resulting from the alleged infringement. This coudl include lost royalties or diminished value of his work.

Related search terms include “music copyright protection,” “songwriting copyright,” and “intellectual property law music.”

The Role of Producer Jasper Cameron

Jasper cameron is a central figure in the lawsuit. Irving alleges that Cameron had full access to “Never Enough” and subsequently worked with Scott, future, and SZA on the tracks in question.the lawsuit suggests Cameron acted as a conduit for the alleged lyric theft.

Cameron’s potential liability stems from his role as a facilitator.If it’s proven he knowingly shared Irving’s work and it was then incorporated into the songs, he could be held accountable for copyright infringement. This aspect of the case is drawing attention to the responsibilities of music producers in safeguarding original work.

Previous Cases & Precedents: A Look at Music Copyright Litigation

This case isn’t isolated. The music industry has seen numerous copyright lawsuits over the years. Some notable examples include:

Marvin Gaye Estate vs. Robin Thicke & Pharrell Williams (“Blurred Lines”): This landmark case established a lower threshold for proving copyright infringement, focusing on the “feel” of a song rather than direct copying of notes.

Lead Zeppelin vs. Spirit (“Stairway to Heaven”): This case involved allegations of plagiarism of the opening riff of “Stairway to Heaven.” While Led Zeppelin ultimately prevailed, the case highlighted the challenges of proving originality in music.

* Ed Sheeran Copyright Cases: Sheeran has faced multiple lawsuits alleging copyright infringement