Haitian Music Icon Fabrice Rouzier Files Copyright Lawsuit Against Nigeria's Burna Boy in the U.S.

Fabrice Rouzier, a legendary figure in Haitian music, has initiated legal action against Nigerian Afro-fusion superstar, Burna Boy, in the United States, alleging copyright infringement. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York, also names French-Haitian singer Joe Gilles, known as Joe Dwet File, as a co-defendant.

According to court documents obtained by various news outlets, Rouzier claims that Burna Boy and Gilles unlawfully incorporated substantial elements from his 2002 hit song, "Je Vais," into their collaborative track "4 Kampe II," which was released on March 28, 2025. The lawsuit asserts that the newer song infringes upon Rouzier's original story, musical composition, sound recording, and visual materials without his authorization.

The legal dispute reportedly originated in the fall of 2024 when Gilles released the initial version of "4 Kampe," which Rouzier alleges was based on "Je Vais." Following this release, Rouzier sent a cease-and-desist letter to Gilles, who, according to the lawsuit, later admitted to using Rouzier's material without permission.

Despite this warning, Gilles proceeded to collaborate with Burna Boy on "4 Kampe II." Rouzier argues that this remix further intensified the infringement, featuring lyrics and stylistic elements allegedly lifted from "Je Vais," including the French phrase "Cherie, ou sou sa kampe" ("Darling, let's do this in the standing position"), which Rouzier states mirrors his original song's lyrics and theme.

Rouzier contends that Burna Boy was fully aware of Gilles' prior admission of infringement but still proceeded with the collaboration, causing ongoing damage to Rouzier's brand, profits, and professional opportunities.

As part of his legal demands, Rouzier is seeking compensatory and exemplary damages, reimbursement for legal fees, and a court order to prevent further use of his image, persona, and creative works in connection with "4 Kampe" and "4 Kampe II." He is also reportedly seeking the destruction of all infringing copies of the videos.

This lawsuit adds to a growing list of copyright-related allegations that have trailed Burna Boy in recent years. The outcome of this case will be closely watched by music industry stakeholders and fans worldwide.