Memphis Rap Legends Sue Kanye Over Alleged Sample Theft
Kanye West and Ty Dolla $ign are at the center of a copyright lawsuit filed by Memphis rap veterans Criminal Manne (Vanda Watkins), DJ Squeeky (Hayward Ivy), and the estate of the late Kilo G. The plaintiffs allege that the duo used unlicensed samples from their work on “Fuk Sumn,” a track featured in West and Ty Dolla $ign’s Vultures 1 collaboration. Listen to the song in question:
The Claim: Kilo G’s Lyrics at the Center of Kanye Lawsuit
At the heart of the lawsuit is a sample from Kilo G’s lyrics: “Stop by at the liquor store, buy your yak, then we headed for the indo.” According to the plaintiffs, the sample was used in “Fuk Sumn” without acknowledgment or compensation. Negotiations to license the material reportedly collapsed earlier this year when staff from West’s Yeezy label resigned in June, disrupting discussions with Alien Music, the group managing the rights. Listen to the original sample in “Drank a Yak (Part 2)”
Read more about the lawsuit from Billboard.
Kanye’s Bully Rollout Marred by Legal Battle
This legal dispute comes amid West’s rollout of his highly anticipated album, Bully. While fans are eagerly awaiting the new release, the lawsuit has reignited long-standing debates about the ethics of sampling and fair compensation for original artists. The timing of the lawsuit places additional scrutiny on West’s promotional efforts and adds complexity to Ty Dolla $ign’s role as a frequent collaborator in the industry.
Sampling or Stealing? Hip-Hop’s Ongoing Copyright Dilemma
The case highlights a recurring issue in hip-hop, where sampling remains a cornerstone of creative expression but often sparks legal disputes. For Kanye West, this lawsuit joins a history of copyright controversies tied to his music. For Ty Dolla $ign, the allegations could affect his standing in the industry as a trusted collaborator. And lately, 90’s Memphis rap has taken center stage in sampling. Artists like Three 6 Mafia see their songs sampled everywhere.
The plaintiffs argue that their creative contributions were exploited without consent, claiming their voices and work were “stolen” to enhance the track. They are seeking damages and official recognition for their influence.
Shining a Light on Regional Rap Pioneers
Beyond the immediate legal stakes, the lawsuit draws attention to the legacy of regional rap pioneers like Criminal Manne, DJ Squeeky, and Kilo G, whose contributions often go unrecognized in mainstream hip-hop. As the case unfolds, it promises to test the boundaries of copyright law while spotlighting the underappreciated impact of Memphis rap on the genre’s evolution.
