How Payfor Helped A Record Label Recover Six-Figure Copyright Infringement Damages
Jun 25, 2025
Copyright infringement in the music industry is not just a legal concern but also a commercial one. When unauthorised use of licensed material goes unchecked, it can result in serious financial loss for rightsholders, especially those with historic catalogues and global licensing agreements.
At Payfor, we recently supported a New York-based record label in reclaiming outstanding damages following a serious breach of copyright by overseas entity. The debt? A substantial $280,000 in unpaid and improperly distributed royalties accrued through unauthorised use of catalogue material across multiple platforms and territories.
When Copyright Becomes a Commercial Liability
In this matter, multiple tracks were used without the appropriate clearances, despite prior attempts by the rightsholders to clarify the terms of usage. The infringing parties failed to account for the ongoing use of the material in streaming, commercial sync placements, and promotional distribution.
Repeated communication from the record labels was either ignored or brushed aside with vague assurances. Despite clear evidence and licensing agreements in place, the infringers made no effort to enter into settlement discussions or begin repayment. That’s when Payfor was instructed to intervene.
How Payfor Approached the Infringement Case
Unlike traditional collection efforts, our team approached this copyright matter as a high-stakes negotiation backed by legal merit. We do not lead with threats. We lead with credibility.
We began by reviewing the licensing agreements, correspondence, and proof of unauthorised usage. The nature of this breach allowed us to cite strong legal precedent, which became the foundation for our pursuit strategy.
From there, our 30-Day Chase Campaign was implemented. We had daily calls, written notices, and direct outreach to senior stakeholders in the infringing companies. Our team acted as a third-party intermediary, citing the clear legal position, and offering an opportunity for without-prejudice discussions to avoid full legal escalation.
What made the difference was not just the pressure applied, but the professionalism of the process. Payfor negotiators understand how to strike the balance between amicability and firmness showing that our clients are serious, but still commercially reasonable.
A Settlement Achieved Without Court
Within three weeks, the debtors responded and opened dialogue. They acknowledged the breach and, perhaps more importantly, understood the risk of prolonged inaction.
Following several rounds of structured discussions, Payfor secured a $280,000 settlement agreement for our client which is paid in two tranches, with penalties added for delay. The matter was resolved without the need for court proceedings, saving our client both time and reputational cost.
Helping Rightsholders Reclaim What They’re Owed
Our work with record companies across North America and the UK has proven one consistent fact: rights without enforcement are just paperwork. Whether you are dealing with unpaid royalties, unlicensed use of tracks, or breach of contract by past collaborators, Payfor brings both the commercial edge and legal credibility needed to secure payment.
Our team understands the entertainment industry, the psychology of infringement cases, and the art of negotiation, particularly when global rights and high-value claims are involved. We speak to C-level decision makers, legal departments, and distribution executives in their language, and we do it professionally and strategically.
If you’re a record label or music publisher dealing with unpaid fees, legacy rights violations, or uncooperative distributors, Payfor is here to help.
We pursue payment with strategy, authority, and commercial sense. Get in touch today.
Disclaimer:
This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. The information provided in this post is based on general principles and may not apply to specific legal situations. Laws and regulations vary by jurisdiction and can change over time. Readers are advised to seek professional legal counsel before making any decisions based on the information provided in this blog post. Payfor Ltd is not a law firm and does not provide legal services. The company disclaims any liability for actions taken based on the contents of this blog post.
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