Cardi B has achieved another significant legal victory as a federal judge dismissed a copyright infringement lawsuit against her regarding the song “Enough (Miami).” Plaintiffs Joshua Fraustro and Miguel Aguilar, known collectively as the production duo Kemika1956, originally claimed that Cardi’s track infringed on their song “Greasy Frybread,” featured in the acclaimed FX series Reservation Dogs.
Details of the Lawsuit Against Cardi B
The lawsuit was filed nearly two years ago, accusing Cardi B of reproducing, distributing, and publicly performing “Greasy Frybread” without obtaining permission. The plaintiffs later expanded their claims to include defamation. Cardi B’s legal team contended that the original song did not have proper copyright protection and pointed out that the plaintiffs shifted their legal argument to Texas law only after they realized they lacked copyright registration.
Court Ruling and Key Findings
On October 30, 2023, U.S. District Judge Fernando Rodriguez issued a ruling indicating that the plaintiffs’ claims under state law lacked the strength necessary to continue. The judge noted that even though Cardi B, born Belcalis Almánzar, had performed several shows in Texas, this alone did not justify the application of Texas law. The ruling emphasized that the performances were part of a broader tour, insufficient to establish jurisdiction in Texas.
- The plaintiffs initially filed a claim regarding federal copyright infringement.
- Cardi argued that “Greasy Frybread” was not protected under copyright law.
- Later, the plaintiffs secured a copyright registration effective October 31, 2025.
Impact on Cardi B’s Career
Cardi B’s “Enough (Miami)” has garnered significant attention, surpassing 78 million views on YouTube and reaching Number Nine on the Billboard Hot 100. This song, her first solo release since 2021, was also recognized as one of Rolling Stone’s Best Songs of 2024.
Previous Legal Successes
This recent ruling adds to Cardi B’s track record of successful outcomes in legal battles. In September 2023, she won a jury trial against a security guard who had accused her of assault. Additionally, she secured a $4 million verdict against vlogger Latasha Kebe and successfully defended against a libel lawsuit in New York.
| Song Title | Artist | Views on YouTube | Billboard Hot 100 Position |
|---|---|---|---|
| Enough (Miami) | Cardi B | 78 million | 9 |
| Greasy Frybread | Kemika1956 | 920,000 | N/A |
Cardi B’s legal team expressed satisfaction with the ruling, highlighting the court’s careful consideration of the issues involved. The victory not only reinforces Cardi’s status in the music industry but also fortifies her reputation amidst ongoing legal challenges.
