Lyrics, Lawsuits and Social Media Soundtracks

This week, two new lawsuits remind us just how sharp the edges of copyright law can be — especially when it comes to lyrics and social media. Taylor Swift is once again pushing back against infringement claims over her songwriting, while Warner Music is suing PacSun for using hit songs in TikTok ads without proper licenses.

Author

ChaseLawyers Newsletter
December 09, 2025

Hi there,

Today’s update features two familiar themes in entertainment law — protecting your original work and knowing the limits of what “everyone else is doing” on social media.

First, Taylor Swift is asking a court to throw out a lawsuit filed by poet Kimberly Marasco, who claims Swift lifted her lyrics from published poems. Swift calls the case legally baseless and points out that many of the words and ideas in question — like “love,” “rain,” and “gaslighting” — aren’t copyrightable in the first place.

Meanwhile, fashion brand PacSun is the latest to be hit with a copyright lawsuit over using pop songs in TikTok and Instagram videos. Warner Music says there’s no excuse: brands need sync licenses, and PacSun should know better — especially since they aggressively protect their own IP.

Taylor Swift Moves to Dismiss ‘Absurd’ Poem Lawsuit

Taylor Swift and Universal Music have asked a Florida court to dismiss a new copyright lawsuit accusing Swift of stealing lyrics from a series of poems. In a sharp court filing, they argue the suit is based on unprotectable words and ideas — and that it’s nearly identical to a prior lawsuit already thrown out by the court.

The plaintiff, Kimberly Marasco, claims Swift copied themes like “being submerged under water” or being “gaslighted” — but Swift’s team says these are universal metaphors, not original expressions. The court is being asked to dismiss the case with prejudice, barring any future claims on the same issue.

Warner Music Sues PacSun Over Pop Songs in TikToks

Warner Music has filed suit against clothing retailer PacSun for using unlicensed hit songs — including tracks by Dua Lipa, Bruno Mars, and Lizzo — in its social media promotions. While TikTok and Instagram have music licenses, those don’t extend to brand-created content, making PacSun legally liable.

The lawsuit notes that PacSun is a “sophisticated” brand that enforces its own copyrights — meaning it should know better. Warner is seeking an injunction and damages, and is also drawing attention to how PacSun allegedly directs influencer-created videos that use music illegally.

Stay in the Know

Don’t miss out on the full stories and insights shaping the future of entertainment. Tap into these trends now to stay ahead of the curve and navigate the industry's biggest transformations.

If you have any questions or want to schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys use the button below or contact us by telephone in Miami at 305-373-7665.

INDUSTRY NEWS

Taylor Swift hits back at “absurd and legally baseless” claims that she ripped off existing poems when writing her lyrics

A poet claims Swift lifted lyrics from her work — but the court has heard it all before, and Universal says it’s just “copyright harassment.”

PacSun latest brand to be sued over uncleared pop songs in TikTok posts

The fashion brand is accused of using major label music without licenses in influencer and branded posts — and Warner wants it to stop.

FROM OUR CLIENTS

“ChaseLawyers provided outstanding service and exceeded my expectations. They were incredibly helpful and got my matter sorted out quickly and efficiently. From the very beginning, their professionalism and dedication were evident. The team kept me informed at every step and made the entire process stress-free. I highly recommend ChaseLawyers to anyone in need of expert legal assistance. They truly go above and beyond for their clients.”

Diana B

Exceptional communication with this entire law firm from the very first call. Tomas Michelson was honest, straightforward, understanding and handled my small business needs like family. I continually felt like Tomas understood and never lost sight of my desired outcome. The entire firm cared about me and my complex legal needs.

George M

OUR BLOGS

Understanding Fair Use: Expert Insights from a Copyright Lawyer

What qualifies as fair use? This article explores the four key factors and shares real-world insights from a copyright attorney to help you stay on the right side of the law.

Defending Against Defamation in the Entertainment Industry

One viral lie can ruin a career. If you're a public figure facing false accusations, here’s how legal action and reputation strategy can help restore your name—and stop defamation in its tracks.

CHECK OUT OUR OTHER RESOURCES

MEET OUR PARTNERS

We understand the unique challenges you face as a creative, and we’re prepared to protect your interests.

Barry Oliver Chase
Senior Partner

Barry Chase, Esq. is an honors graduate of Yale College and Harvard Law School, and the founding partner of ChaseLawyers®. In addition to his entertainment attorney legal practice, Mr. Chase lectures regularly on the representation of media personalities, the legal “do’s and don’ts” of music, television, and film production, and the intricacies of film rights option agreements.

Greg Bloom
Partner

Gregory Bloom, Esq., is a sports and entertainment attorney who concentrates his practice on the representation of athletes, entertainers, and corporate businesses in connection with transactional work and litigation issues ranging from the very simple to the extremely complex.

Alexander Loveyko
Partner

Alexander Loveyko, Esq. is a New York-licensed attorney and Partner at ChaseLawyers, focusing on intellectual property, entertainment, and Internet law. Based in Miami, he represents creators, Web3 startups, and international talent, advising on IP, licensing, music catalog deals, and immigration matters.

Connect With Us!