Katy Perry has been found guilty of improperly copying a 2009 Christian rap song. The singer’s 2013 hit song “Dark Horse” featuring Juicy J copies the Christian rap song “Joyful Noise” by Flame featuring Lecrae.
According to The Associated Press, on Monday, “a nine-member federal jury in a Los Angeles courtroom came five years after Marcus Gray and two co-authors, first sued in 2014 alleging “Dark Horse” stole from “Joyful Noise,” a song Gray released under the stage name Flame.”
“Dark Horse” is produced by Dr. Luke. Perry and Luke deny ever hearing “Joyful Noise”. Gray’s attorneys stated that Perry or her co-authors could’ve heard the song. They provided evidence that the Christian rap song garnered millions of plays on YouTube and Spotify. The record was also Grammy-nominated.
The penalty phase slated for Tuesday will determine the amount Perry and the other defendants owe for copyright infringement. The lawsuit focuses on “Dark Horse” copying the notes and beats of the song. Take a listen to both songs below to compare.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jTLeHuvHXuk
