THE BIG STORY: Summer Walker and Universal Music Group are pitted in a legal battle over the status of her record deal, centered on the singer’s efforts to use California’s “seven-year rule” to get out of her deal.
The case, filed by UMG’s Interscope Records last week, argues that if Walker breaks her deal she’ll owe $50 million for not yet delivering enough albums. That’s because the seven-year rule has a special provision for the music industry, allowing labels to demand artists deliver their contractually agreed albums even if the titular seven years have passed.
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Reading between the lines, both sides still appear to be open to a deal. UMG said it was forced to file the case because of legal deadlines, but has “great respect for Summer” and hopes for an “amicable resolution.” Her lawyers said she is “disappointed” in the lawsuit and would “vigorously defend” it, but that she “remains open to a constructive resolution.”
For more on Summer, UMG and the seven-year rule, go read our full story here — and stick with Billboard for more updates as the case moves ahead.
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