For most songwriters, having one of their creations chosen by an international star, usually opens the door to increased wealth and fame. However, what happens if the songwriter isn’t paid?
Sean Hamilton and Hyuk Shin, original songwriters of One Less Lonely Girl sung by teen pop sensation Justin Bieber on his debut album My World, have still not received any royalties, according to the Hollywood Reporter.
In a lawsuit filed last week, representatives for the songwriters, artist managers Vance Tate and Thomas Oliveria, claim they are entitled to 10 percent of the publishing royalties for their share of the song, estimated to be $200,000.
Working under the name A-Rex, the duo wrote the song One Less Lonely Girl in 2008. It ended up on Bieber’s first album with final credits to Hamilton and Shin as well as Usher, Ezekiel Lewis, and Balewa Muhammad.
The plaintiffs are also seeking damages for breach of contract, fraud, conversion, and copyright infringement.