Adele’s “Million Years Ago” Asked to Be Pulled Worldwide After Brazilian Judge Rules Plagiarism

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Adele's 2015 song "Million Years Ago" has been requested to be removed from radio and streaming services worldwide following a ruling by a Brazilian judge. The decision stems from claims by singer-songwriter Toninho Geraes that the track plagiarizes his 1996 classic "Mulheres".

The preliminary injunction, issued by Judge Victor Torres in Rio de Janeiro, prohibits Adele’s labels, Sony Music Entertainment and Universal Music, from using, reproducing, or distributing the song by any means globally. Violations of this order carry fines of $8,000 per instance of non-compliance.

Geraes’ lawyer, Fredimio Trotta, described the ruling as a “landmark for Brazilian music,” adding that it sends a message to international producers and artists about respecting Brazilian artistry.

The case, filed in 2021, also seeks songwriting credit, $160,000 in damages, and lost royalties for Geraes. Fans had previously accused "Million Years Ago" of similarities to Kurdish singer Ahmet Kaya’s 1985 song "Acilara Tutunmak", though this case focuses solely on "Mulheres".”

Currently, neither Adele nor her representatives have commented on the ruling.