Lawsuit: Peloton Used 1,000+ Songs Illegally

The National Music Publishers’ Association (NMPA) is suing streaming exercise bike company Peloton, saying the service used upwards of 1,000 songs without licensing them properly, according to reports.

Peloton, which manufactures an exercise bike with a video screen, is being sued for $150 million dollars. The list of artists involved in the suit is extensive, including Lady Gaga, Rihanna, Katy Perry, Drake and others. Publishers involved in the suit include Round Hill, Royalty Network and TRO Essex Music Group, to name a few.

“Unfortunately, instead of recognizing the integral role of songwriters to its company, Peloton has built its business by using their work without their permission or fair compensation for years,” said NMPA President and CEO David Israelite. “It is frankly unimaginable that a company of this size and sophistication would think it could exploit music in this way without the proper licenses for this long, and we look forward to getting music creators what they deserve.”

Israelite said that without music, Peloton wouldn’t be as successful as it is.

“Music is a core part of the Peloton business model and is responsible for much of the brand’s swift success,” he noted. “Thousands of exclusive videos and playlists are a major reason hundreds of thousands of people have purchased Peloton products.”

The company responded to the allegations, saying it is figuring out what to do.

“We just received the complaint this morning, and we are evaluating it,” Peloton said. “Peloton has great respect for songwriters and artists. In fact, we have partnered with each of the major music publishers, record labels and performing rights organizations, and many leading independents. We have also invested heavily to build a best-in-breed reporting and licensing system to support our partners and provide our members with a world-class fitness experience.”

Many expect Peloton to go public this year, and the company is reportedly seeking a $4 billion valuation. The bikes cost more than $2,000 each, and the company provides users with a monthly streaming service.