Salt-N-Pepa Sue Universal Music Group Over Rights Dispute, Accuse Label of Blocking Music Promotion

Salt-N-Pepa’s iconic tracks were pulled from streaming services last week, and now we know why — the legendary hip-hop duo is locked in a legal battle with Universal Music Group (UMG) over ownership and control of their music.

TMZ Hip Hop obtained new legal documents revealing Cheryl “Salt” James and Sandra “Pepa” Denton are suing UMG, alleging the label has refused to acknowledge their attempt to reclaim the rights to their recordings under Section 203 of the U.S. Copyright Act. That provision allows artists to terminate copyright grants after a set period, typically 35 years.

According to the complaint, UMG’s refusal has not only blocked Salt-N-Pepa from licensing their music elsewhere but also interfered with their ability to promote and earn from their own legacy — including potentially lucrative partnerships like their viral Geico commercial from a decade ago.

UMG, in response, told TMZ that the artists’ legal filings show the label made repeated attempts to resolve the matter amicably, even after Salt-N-Pepa sold their royalty rights to a third party. “Although we had no legal obligation to do so, we still sought to find a way to improve the artists’ compensation and pay them directly,” a spokesperson said.

The statement continues with sharp criticism of Salt-N-Pepa’s legal strategy: “Clearly, the artists’ legal counsel thinks they can use the threat of negative media coverage from the lawsuit to achieve their unreasonable demands. Despite this, and consistent with our longstanding practice, we remain committed to working towards an amicable resolution.”

Salt-N-Pepa are seeking at least $1 million in damages, a declaratory judgment to support their termination claim, and a permanent injunction preventing UMG from distributing their music without a license.

The lawsuit adds to a growing list of high-profile artists challenging UMG, including Drake and Limp Bizkit, both of whom also have pending legal disputes with the label.

As this battle unfolds, fans and industry insiders alike are watching closely — with many wondering if Salt-N-Pepa will regain control of their classic catalog and the legacy they helped shape.