Court documents claim that Big Freedia, and subsequently Beyoncé, used the phrase "Release a Wiggle" from Da Showstoppaz's 2002 song of the same name without permission or credit in both "Break My Soul" and Big Freedia's 2014 song "Explode."
The lawsuit alleges that Big Freedia deliberately used the words, melody, and musical arrangement of "Release a Wiggle" in "Explode," which was then heavily sampled by Beyoncé in "Break My Soul."
Da Showstoppaz asserts that they were not credited or compensated for the use of their copyrighted material, despite the success of "Break My Soul." The group seeks acknowledgment of their contribution, permission to use their copyrighted material, and compensation for their work.
In addition to seeking compensation, the lawsuit demands that the defendants cease and desist from further unauthorized use of Da Showstoppaz's works and provide credit and compensation rights.
Court documents affirm that Da Showstoppaz holds a "protectable copyright interest" over the musical composition and sound recording of "Release a Wiggle."
"Break My Soul," the first single from Beyoncé's Renaissance album, sampled Big Freedia's "Explode." The song received four Grammy nominations and won the award for best dance/electronic recording in 2023.
Representatives for Beyoncé, Big Freedia, and Da Showstoppaz have not yet responded to requests for comment on the lawsuit.
