Brazilian Judge Orders Global Ban On Adele’s Song Over Plagiarism Claims

A Rio de Janeiro judge has issued an injunction ordering Adele’s 2015 hit song “Million Years Ago” to be pulled worldwide, including from streaming platforms, due to a plagiarism claim by Brazilian composer Toninho Geraes.

The order, made by Judge Victor Torres, threatens Sony Music and Universal Music with fines of $8,000 per violation if they fail to comply.

Geraes alleges the song plagiarized his 1995 samba classic *”Mulheres”*, recorded by Martinho da Vila.

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He is suing for songwriting credit, $160,000 in damages, and lost royalties. Fredimio Trotta, Geraes’ lawyer, hailed the decision as a milestone for Brazilian music and plans to alert global broadcasters and streaming services.

Sony and Universal have yet to comment, while the ruling remains subject to appeal. Adele previously faced similar allegations in 2015 over similarities between *”Million Years Ago”* and Kurdish singer Ahmet Kaya’s 1985 song *”Acılara Tutunmak.”*

Brazil, a signatory to the Berne Convention, grants international protection for copyrighted works. The case could impact how global artists and producers approach Brazilian music in the future.