Universal Pulls Megaupload Video, Even Though It Doesn’t Have The Rights
Did you catch that hot Megaupload video? It’s basically a long ad for the filesharing website, but damn, it’s a catchy tune. The video is packed with stars including Jamie Foxx, Diddy, Will.i.Am, and Floyd Mayweather.
And then, it was gone for a while.
Universal Music Group quickly claimed responsibility for removing the video, using YouTube’s automated system for taking down videos with unlicensed copyrighted material. Just one problem: Universal doesn’t own the rights to any material in the clip.
Megaupload sued UMG, and Universal fired back that their actions were consistent with a “written agreement with YouTube.” But YouTube wasn’t buying that, and reinstated the video.
Presumably, Universal wanted to take down the video because it promotes a website that many accuse of being a major vehicle behind online piracy.
You be the judge: does this song make you want to go out and steal music? Or more importantly, does Universal think it has some secret censorship power?
[via Wired]
