Music artist Andy Stone claims that Carey's iconic holiday tune infringes on his song "All I Want for Christmas Is You."
Mariah Carey, the undisputed Queen of Christmas, is facing a $20 million lawsuit over allegations of copyright infringement regarding her beloved holiday classic, "All I Want for Christmas Is You." Music artist Andy Stone claims that Carey's song bears striking similarities to his own track of the same name, which he released in 1989.
According to the lawsuit filed in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, Stone alleges that Carey and her co-writers, Walter Afanasieff and Nickolas Ashford, unlawfully copied substantial portions of his song without his permission. The suit highlights numerous musical similarities, including the chorus melody, chord progression, and overall structure.
Mariah Carey Sued for $20 Million Over 'All I Want for Christmas Is You' Copyright Infringement
"The striking similarities between the songs are undeniable," Stone's attorney, Richard Busch, told Fox News Digital. "We believe that Mariah Carey and her co-writers intentionally or subconsciously copied our client's work."
Carey's attorneys have yet to respond to the lawsuit. However, in a statement to People magazine, an unnamed source close to the singer stated that Carey "has always been an original artist who takes pride in her work."
Mariah Carey Sued for $20 Million Over 'All I Want for Christmas Is You' Copyright Infringement
The lawsuit has sent shockwaves through the music industry, particularly during the holiday season when "All I Want for Christmas Is You" reigns supreme on the charts. The song has become a global phenomenon, generating millions of dollars in revenue for Carey and her collaborators.
If successful, Stone's lawsuit could have significant financial implications for Carey. The $20 million damages sought by Stone represent a substantial portion of the revenue generated by the song over the years. Moreover, a finding of copyright infringement could potentially lead to an injunction prohibiting Carey from performing or distributing the song in the future.
Mariah Carey Sued for $20 Million Over 'All I Want for Christmas Is You' Copyright Infringement
Beyond the financial consequences, the lawsuit also raises questions about Carey's creative integrity and the originality of her most famous song. The allegations of copyright infringement could tarnish her reputation as an artist and undermine her legacy as a music icon.
The lawsuit is likely to undergo a lengthy legal process. Expert witnesses will be called upon to analyze the musical similarities between the two songs, and a judge or jury will ultimately determine whether Carey and her co-writers violated Stone's copyright.
In the meantime, fans of "All I Want for Christmas Is You" can continue to enjoy the holiday classic while the lawsuit plays out in court. However, the allegations of copyright infringement have cast a shadow over the song's reputation, raising questions about its true origins and the extent of Carey's creative contributions.
As the legal battle unfolds, it remains to be seen whether Carey will be able to maintain her status as the uncontested Queen of Christmas or if her legacy will be forever intertwined with accusations of copyright infringement.
