A German singer, Alice Merton, has filed a lawsuit against Kanye West, claiming he used her song “Blindside” in his unreleased track “Gun to My Head” without permission. Merton and two German companies state in their lawsuit that West knowingly infringed on their copyright by including an unauthorized sample of “Blindside.”
The legal complaint, which was made public, indicates that Merton, along with the companies MERTON & GRAUWINKEL GMBH and PAPER PLANE PUBLISHING GMBH, own the rights to the song. They allege that West’s actions have caused them financial harm regarding their rights to both the publishing and writing aspects of the song.
Merton, who released “Blindside” in 2022, became aware of the sample being used during West’s live performance in December 2023. Following Merton’s refusal to allow the sample, West’s fans reportedly threatened her if she did not grant permission for its use.
The lawsuit includes allegations of unfair competition and seeks both damages and an injunction against further use of the song without authorization. Merton expressed deep concern over associating with West, particularly given his series of antisemitic remarks. She noted that her family has close ties to the Holocaust, which makes his comments particularly troubling for her.
In February, after West sought approval to use “Blindside,” Merton and her associates rejected the request, citing their values and personal beliefs. Following the album’s release, where the song was not included due to the lack of permission, Merton was subjected to online harassment and threats, prompting her to fear for her safety, especially concerning touring in the U.S.
The legal action also reflects ongoing concerns about West’s behavior and comments, which have previously led to professional consequences for him, including the loss of brand partnerships. Merton and her associates are asking for a jury trial to resolve the issues raised in their lawsuit.
