Jay Z Lawsuit Extended To LN

Live Nation has been pulled into a long-running legal battle surrounding Jay Z’s sampling of the Egyptian song, “Khosara, Khosara,” from a 1960s film in his hit “Big Pimpin.’”

Photo: Brad Barket / Invision / AP

Global Citizen Festival, Great Lawn @ Central Park, New York City

Osama Ahmed Fahmy filed suit years ago against the rapper, MTV, Warner Music and others. Now, Fahmy is going after Live Nation because it’s made money on concerts where Jay Z performed the song since the company inked a deal in 2008 to promote all his tours for the next 10 years.

“Live Nation has profited substantially from Jay Z’s performances of ‘Big Pimpin’, including but not limited to, profits from ticket sales, merchandise, parking, concessions, and other revenue streams,” the suit says.

And since Live Nation knew “Big Pimpin’” was in violation of the copyright of the Eygyptian tune but continued to contribute to Jay Z’s infringement by promoting his shows, the suit claims Fahmy has been irreparably harmed and is owed damages.

LN is facing charges of copyright infringement, contributory copyright infringement, and vicarious copyright infringement. The suit seeks actual damages, Live Nation’s profits and gains from the performance of the song, injunctive relief and costs, among other requests.