The alleged copyright infringement concerns the opening part to both tracks. The lawsuit states ÂThe identical and/or striking similarity of ÂSorry to the PlaintiffÂs song ÂRing the Bell surpasses the realm of generic coincidence and independent creationÂ. The lawsuit continues, ÂTo write, create, produce, and record the song ÂSorryÂ, the Defendants knowingly and unlawfully copied original, protectable elements of the musical composition of ÂRing the Bell and unlawfully sampled PlaintiffÂs protectable sound recording of ÂRing the BellÂ.
Casey Dienel released the following statement via facebook on Thursday:
ÂAs many of you that follow my career and work have already recognized, Justin BieberÂs song ÂSorry copies the vocal riff prominently featured in my song ÂRing the Bell. The writers, producers, and performers of ÂSorry did not obtain a license for this exploitation of my work, nor did they obtain or seek my permission. Yesterday afternoon, I filed a lawsuit for copyright infringement against Justin Bieber and the other responsible parties.
After this post, I intend to leave the subject matter of the lawsuit in the hands of my lawyers and the legal system. However, because I do not take the act of suing lightly, I want to take this opportunity to briefly explain my decision to those of you who are connected to me through family, friendship, and music.
Creating original and unique music is my lifeÂs passion, but it is challenging and time consuming. I poured my blood, sweat, and tears into writing and producing ÂRing the Bell, and I am proud of the finished product, which Rolling Stone listed as one of its Âfavorite songs, albums, and videos. Throughout my career, I have worked very hard to preserve my independence and creative control, thus it came as a shock to hear my work used and exploited without permission.
Like most artists that sample music, Bieber could have licensed my song for use in ÂSorry. But he chose not to contact me. After the release of ÂSorry, my lawyers sent Bieber a letter regarding the infringement, but BieberÂs team again chose to ignore me. I offered BieberÂs team an opportunity to have a private dialogue about the infringement, but they refused to even acknowledge my claim, despite the obviousness of the sample. Justin Bieber is the worldÂs biggest artist, and IÂm sure that he and his team will launch a full attack against me. But, in the end, I was left with no other option. I believe I have an obligation to stand up for my music and art.
Thank you in advance for your support.
Casey Dienel (White Hinterland)Â
The lawsuit is seeking unspecified damages this could potentially be a large amount as it would include the profits that Bieber earned from his No. 1 hit single ÂSorryÂ.
