Seeking $50,000 in royalties, a Port Arthur musician is suing his producer for allegedly selling a copyrighted track without permission.
Michael Tilley filed suit against Paul Tisdale, Green Light Music, Young Money Records Entertainment, Cash Money Records and Universal Music Group on June 20 in Jefferson Count District Court.
According to the lawsuit, on March 13, 2010, Tilley entered into a recording contract with Tisdale and Green Light Music, wherein Tilley retained all rights to his copyrighted music.
A month later, Tisdale sought to sell a track to Young Money Records, but Tilley declined the deal. On June 26, 2010, Tilley discovered a video of a song he recorded and to which he owned the rights.
The suit alleges Tisdale breached his contract and owes Tilley $50,000 in previously earned commissions and royalties.
Tilley alleges the defendants are unfairly profiting from the fruits of his musical talent.
He is suing for actual damages and attorney's fees.
Beaumont attorney Gary Riebschlager of Brent Coon & Associates represents him.
Judge Milton Shuffield, 136th District Court, is assigned to the case.
Case No. D192-595