The Infringing Work incorporates the lyrics and voice melody of the Composition, its most recognizable and memorable parts,” the case says. “The Composition’s lyrics and vocal melody comprise approximately half of the Infringing Work, and are easily recognizable and identifiable as Chapman’s.”
As per to the case, the “Barbie Dreams” rapper (whose real name is Onika Tanya Maraj) had already recorded “Sorry” before her representatives questioned Chapman’s representatives for permission to use “Baby Can I Hold You” several times. Chapman’s representatives said no, reports The Blast.
In July, Minaj’s manager emailed Chapman’s managers to question if Minaj and Chapman could talk about an “idea that is one of the most personal for [Minaj] that was inspired by [Chapman’s] art.”
Days later, Minaj wrote in a since-deleted post —one of several tweets about the situation — that she “had no clue” that the song “sampled the legend #Tracy Chapman” and thought whether to delay Queen‘s release, the case claims.
Minaj allegedly gave a copy of “Sorry” to Funkmaster Flex, who played it on the radio and online. In August, the DJ tweeted, “NICKI GAVE ME SOMETHING!!!”
“Maraj wrongfully deprived Chapman of the right and chance to decide whether to allow the use of the Composition, and, if so, on what terms,” the case says.
“Maraj, thus, has caused Chapman to incur substantial injury, loss and damage as a result of her wrongdoing.” “The fact that the Infringing Work does not look on Queen does not relieve Maraj of liability to Chapman for her infringement or make Maraj’s wrongdoing any less deliberate and willful,” the case adds.