UK band claims ‘plagiarism’ “Stop using NewJeans’ ‘Bubble Gum’ and compensate for damages”
It has recently come to light that the UK band Shakatak has appointed a domestic law firm and sent a cease and desist letter demanding compensation for damages regarding the alleged plagiarism of their song “Easier Said Than Done” by girl group NewJeans’ song “Bubble Gum”
In response, NewJeans‘ agency ADOR has refuted the claim, stating, “We did not use it without permission.”
According to a comprehensive report by Munhwa Ilbo, Wise Music Group from the UK sent an official Letter of Claim in mid-June, designating ADOR, its parent company HYBE, the Korea Music Copyright Association, Sony Music Publishing Hong Kong Limited (Korean office) and other recipients.
The law firm representing Shakatak’s rights to “Easier Said Than Done”, headquartered in London, Wise Music Group, sent the document stating, “The song ‘Bubble Gum’ written by 250, Oscar Bell, Sophie Simmons and Gigi and recorded by NewJeans is found to have used ‘Easier Said Than Done’ without permission, violating copyright. We demand immediate actions including the cessation of use of ‘Bubble Gum’.”
Additionally, the letter included demands for cessation of use, reporting of profits, rights changes, written guarantees and compensation for damages. It requested that ADOR comply with these demands within the specified period (7 days) and notify Wise Music Group directly, warning of potential legal actions.
Shakatak’s side, through the attached document, claimed that “Bubble Gum” has identical distinctive melodic hook, instrumentation, rhythmic shapes, tempo, choice of harmony and harmonic rhythm. They noted the tempo of “Easier Said Than Done” is about 104 BPM, while “Bubble Gum” is about 105 BPM, indicating significant similarity.
In response, ADOR acknowledged receiving the letter on June 17th and replied on June 21st. They stated, “’Bubble Gum’ did not use Shakatak’s composition without permission, and we requested a credible analysis report on this matter.” They mentioned that Shakatak had agreed to provide a report but had not yet done so. ADOR emphasized that the burden of proof lies with Shakatak to send a report proving plagiarism.
Munhwa Ilbo attempted to get a response from Shakatak’s legal representative regarding ADOR’s stance but has not received any reply.
Meanwhile, shortly after the release of NewJeans’ “Bubble Gum” music video on April 27th, suspicions arose about its similarity to “Easier Said Than Done”. Shakatak responded through their official account, “We’ll look into this. It is similar.”
