UMG disputes Salt-N-Pepa’s master rights lawsuit
A legal battle is heating up between Salt-N-Pepa and Universal Music. UMG disputes the claims, read what’s behind the legal battle.
Salt‑N‑Pepa, have launched a high‑stakes legal battle with Universal Music Group (UMG), aiming to reclaim ownership of their early master recordings under U.S. copyright law. Filed in New York federal court on May 19, 2025, the lawsuit centers around their 1980s catalog, including iconic tracks like “Push It,” “Shoop,” and “Let’s Talk About Sex.”
Under Section 203 of the Copyright Act, artists may terminate copyright transfers 35 years after signing, reclaiming their master rights. Salt‑N‑Pepa sent formal termination notices in 2022. However, UMG responded that the notices were “invalid”, claiming the recordings were works made for hire, and that Pepper and Salt were not named in the original contracts, a move that prevents them from reversing the ownership.
In a bold response, UMG reportedly “pulled” Salt‑N‑Pepa’s early albums from major U.S. streaming platforms between May and July 2024, allegedly as retaliation. This blackout has deprived fans of access and cut off streaming revenue, damaging both the artists’ income and public legacy.
Salt‑N‑Pepa’s complaint accuses UMG of “holding their rights hostage,” claiming significant financial loss in royalty and sync income. They’re pursuing damages, both compensatory and punitive, and seek a court injunction restoring their recordings and access.
UMG counters that it has made substantial efforts to resolve the matter, including offers for mediation and direct compensation (even after Salt‑N‑Pepa sold royalty interests to third parties). The label denies any legal obligation but says it remains open to finding an “amicable resolution.”
The dispute comes at a moment where Salt‑N‑Pepa are set to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame this November, marking only the second time a female hip‑hop act receives this honor. Their lawsuit frames the fight as more than business, it’s a stand for artistic legacy and artist ownership.
A judge will soon review UMG’s motion to dismiss. If the court agrees the termination notices were valid, Salt‑N‑Pepa may regain control, and streaming platforms must restore their music. If not, UMG could maintain control, but the artists may still pursue damages or other remedies.
Victory for Salt‑N‑Pepa could, reinforce rights for creators to reclaim their early work. A defeat might strengthen labels to use similar legal strategies and withdraw content preemptively.