Kimberly Marasco, a Florida artist, has filed a lawsuit against Taylor Swift and her production company, alleging copyright infringement. She demands over $7 million in damages, claiming that Swift’s songs and music videos copied her work without permission or credit. Marasco filed the lawsuit in April 2024.
Dismissal of Taylor Swift from the Case
Judge Aileen Cannon recently dismissed Taylor Swift from the lawsuit without prejudice. This was due to Marasco not serving the lawsuit in time. However, this ruling does not clear Swift entirely. The case against her production company, Taylor Swift Productions, remains. Marasco can still refile the lawsuit in the future.
Swift’s Legal Team Responds
In response, Swift’s lawyers filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit on January 21. They argue that most of Marasco’s claims are “time-barred” under copyright law. According to the law, claims must be filed within three years of discovering the alleged infringement. Marasco’s suit includes references to albums like Lover, Folklore, and Evermore, which were released before 2021.
Marasco Defends Her Work
Marasco responded, asserting that her work is original. She stated, “I may not be a well-known artist, but I made sure my work was unique and protected.” She also mentioned that she wasn’t immediately aware of the similarities because she doesn’t follow Swift’s music closely.
Discovery After Eras Tour
Marasco explained that she only noticed the alleged similarities after attending Swift’s Eras Tour in 2024. This experience led her to review Swift’s albums more closely and identify other possible infringements.
Swift’s Lawyers Counter
Swift’s lawyers argued that Marasco should have been aware of the alleged infringements sooner. They pointed out that Swift’s albums were widely covered by media and are easily available on streaming platforms.
Legal Challenges Ahead
Despite the challenges, Marasco intends to keep pursuing the lawsuit. Her legal team may refile the case or appeal the current dismissal. Swift’s production company continues to deny the allegations.