A federal judge has unsealed the docket in the ongoing copyright infringement case between Eight Mile Style (Eminem's publisher) and Spotify, revealing significant developments in this high-stakes legal battle.

Key Case Details:

• Eight Mile Style alleges Spotify failed to properly license over 240 Eminem compositions
• The disputed tracks have accumulated billions of streams
• The case dates back to August 2019, with Harry Fox Agency (HFA) added as co-defendant in 2020
• Spotify brought Kobalt into the case as a third-party defendant

Core Arguments:

• Eight Mile claims Spotify never obtained proper licensing (either direct or compulsory) before or after the Music Modernization Act (MMA)
• The publisher alleges HFA and Spotify issued invalid backdated notices of intent to obtain compulsory licenses
• Eight Mile maintains that Kobalt only serves as their collection agent, not administrator
• The constitutionality of the MMA is being challenged, prompting Department of Justice involvement

Latest Developments:

• Both sides have filed for summary judgment
• Multiple expert testimonies are contested
• Oral arguments on summary judgment motions are scheduled for July 12
• Parties continue to submit new filings under seal

The case highlights ongoing challenges in music licensing and the complex relationship between streaming platforms, publishers, and rights management organizations.

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