NewJeans and HYBE Face U.S. Copyright Lawsuit Over 'How Sweet'

<article> Four international composers have filed a copyright infringement lawsuit in the U.S. against NewJeans, ADOR, and HYBE, alleging the May 2024 single "How Sweet" used unauthorized melodies from a rejected demo. The plaintiffs claim "How Sweet" shares significant technical similarities with their work titled "One of a Kind."

Key Facts

• Composers Audrey Armacost, Aidan Rodriguez, Adam Goxsbey, and Michael Campanelli filed the lawsuit following the song's May 2024 release.
• In January 2024, Armacost was requested to develop topline lyrics and melodies for NewJeans using a provided instrumental track.
• The plaintiffs collaborated on the demo "One of a Kind," which was later rejected by the group's representatives.
• The lawsuit alleges "How Sweet" shares a 4/4 time signature, a B-flat minor key, and a specific 31-note melody sequence spanning approximately 8 measures with the demo.
• The plaintiffs seek recognition as joint authors and co-owners of "How Sweet," plus a proportional share of profits and royalties.
• ADOR and NewJeans deny the allegations, citing confirmation from production company BANA that no plagiarism occurred.

Key Terms

• Topline: The vocal melody and lyrics written over a pre-existing instrumental track.
• BANA (Beasts And Natives Alike): The company responsible for the composition and production of "How Sweet."

Key Quote

"After checking with BANA, who was in charge of the composition and production of 'How Sweet', their position is that there was no plagiarism." — ADOR

Next

• ADOR and NewJeans intend to defend against the claims in U.S. court.
• Legal proceedings will determine if the technical similarities constitute copyright infringement and if royalty distributions are required.

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