Suit over copyrighted song removed to federal court

A Port Arthur musician’s suit, which alleges his producer allegedly sold a copyrighted track without permission, has been removed to federal court.

As previously reported, 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, seeking $50,000 in royalties.

Court records show that on July 24 a notice of removal was filed in case, stating that CMC and UMG filed with the clerk of the U.S. District Court for Eastern District of Texas their removal of the cause.

The action has been removed to the Beaumont Division, the notice states.

The lawsuit alleges that 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.

Tisdale breached his contract and owes Tilley $50,000 in previously earned commissions and royalties, the suit alleges.

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.

Houston attorney Patricia Hair of Phelps Dunbar represents CMR and UMG.

Judge Milton Shuffield, 136th District Court, was originally assigned to the case.

Case No. D192-595