Archive · 10 Jan 2026
X Corp Sues Music Publishers Over Licensing Dispute
X Corp, owned by Elon Musk, has sued 18 big music publishers and a music industry group.
They say these publishers are working together to stop competition and make X pay too much for music licenses.
X claims the publishers are sending many takedown notices for posts with copyrighted music, which has led to removing posts and suspending users.
This has hurt X's user base and advertising money.
X wants the court to make things fair again and pay them for the lost money.
Last year, X won a similar case where music publishers sued them for over $250 million.
X Corp sued 18 major music publishers and the National Music Publishers’ Association for alleged antitrust violations.
The lawsuit claims the publishers conspired to block competition and force X to accept inflated licensing rates.
Publishers representing over 90% of U.S. copyrighted music are accused of working together against X.
X alleges that the publishers have sent thousands of takedown notices, leading to the removal of posts and suspension of users.
X seeks to restore competitive conditions in music licensing and compensation for lost advertising revenue.
- Who
- X Corp, 18 major music publishers, and the National Music Publishers’ Association
- What
- X Corp suing music publishers for alleged antitrust violations and conspiracy
- When
- Filed on Friday (specific date not mentioned)
- Where
- Federal district court in Texas
- Why
- Allegations of conspiracy to block competition and force inflated licensing rates
- Plaintiff
- X Corp
- Defendants
- 18 major music publishers and the National Music Publishers’ Association
- Allegations
- Conspiracy to block competition and force inflated licensing rates
- Court
- Federal district court in Texas
- Percentage of U.S. Copyrighted Music
- More than 90%
- Previous Lawsuit
- 2023 lawsuit by 17 music publishers seeking $250 million in damages
- Previous Lawsuit Outcome
- Most claims dismissed in 2024
