Composer Gábor Presser Details Contentious Legal Battle with Kanye West
Hungarian composer Gábor Presser recounted a grueling, nearly ten-hour experience representing himself and co-author Anna Adamis in a 2016 lawsuit against Kanye West, revealing details of the dispute over the unauthorized use of their song “Pearl-Headed Girl.” The case,stemming from an 85-second sample on West’s 2013 Yeezus track “New Slaves,” ultimately concluded with a confidential out-of-court settlement. Presser’s recollections, shared during an appearance on Endre Kadarkai’s “Tips for Life,” shed light on the personal toll and unexpected dynamics of facing off against one of music’s biggest stars.
The lawsuit, initially seeking $2.5 million in damages, highlighted the complexities of copyright law and the challenges faced by artists protecting their work in the age of sampling. While the financial terms of the settlement remain undisclosed, presser’s account offers a rare glimpse into the legal process and the emotional weight of defending creative ownership. the case underscores the ongoing debate surrounding fair use and the rights of original artists when their work is incorporated into new compositions, a concern that continues to resonate within the music industry.
Presser described West’s defense as claiming permission had been secured, but “from us, not from the authors, only from Hungaroton,” the original publisher of the song. He characterized the initial interactions as “humiliating,” stating he felt compelled to pursue legal action even to the point of confronting West’s mother.
The composer vividly recalled arriving at court prepared with a “three and a half pound document,” believing the opposing counsel appeared unprepared and anticipating a swift resolution. He described a stark contrast in courtroom attire,noting his formal wear – a jacket and bow tie – against the more casual appearance of the opposing lawyer.
“By the afternoon, my brain had disappeared, and I was already cheeky, but I shouldn’t quote it,” presser stated, hinting at a growing frustration during the proceedings. He also recounted a pointed exchange with a female lawyer, responding to a question about his age with a remark about witnessing the end of a “racket.”
