A New York Court held recently that the UMG Recordings Unit of Vivendi SA’s Universal Music (“UMG”) is the rightful owner of Bob Marley’s recordings.  It is reported that Marley’s widow and children filed suit for damages against UMG for UMG’s exploitation of Marley’s music, among other allegations.

While Marley’s family stated that the rights had been assigned to them, the Court found that UMG owns the recordings, finding that the recordings were defined as Works for Hire  under the U.S. Copyright Act.

Bob Marley, who died in 1981, is known for many of his popular reggae hits such as “One Love,” and “No Woman No Cry.”

The Court also ordered a settlement conference between the parties, to occur in late October.