Jay-Z Secures Future Rights to “Reasonable Doubt” Amid Roc-A-Fella Ownership Dispute
Jay-Z has confirmed that he will reclaim full rights to his iconic debut album, Reasonable Doubt, in 2031, as part of a legal strategy aimed at protecting his interests in Roc-A-Fella Records. The rapper’s legal team has filed documents ensuring that the copyright ownership of the album and its individual tracks will revert to JAY-Z once the current term ends.
The move is particularly significant given the ongoing legal battle over the sale of co-founder Dame Dash’s shares in Roc-A-Fella Records. Dash’s 33.3% stake in the label, which he co-founded with JAY-Z and Kareem “Biggs” Burke in 1994, is set to be auctioned in New York City on August 29. The sale is intended to satisfy a $823,000 judgment Dash owes to movie producer Josh Weber for copyright infringement and defamation related to the 2016 film Dear Frank.
However, the sale may not be as lucrative as it seems. According to reports, the buyer will only hold a minority stake in Roc-A-Fella, with no decision-making power, as all company decisions require a majority vote. Moreover, the ownership of the master recordings has an expiration date, meaning the revenue potential from the purchase is limited.
Earlier this year, after a judge ordered Dash to sell his shares to cover the debt, Jay-Z and Biggs objected, citing company bylaws that require board approval for any sale of stakes. Despite their objections, U.S. Magistrate Robert W. Lehrburger ruled that Dash’s shares could be seized and auctioned, as they are his personal property.
Jay-Z and Biggs’ primary concern is the potential for an outsider to acquire intellectual rights to Roc-A-Fella. To mitigate this risk, the judge suggested that they could participate in the auction and place the winning bid themselves.
With the future of Roc-A-Fella Records hanging in the balance, Jay-Z’s legal maneuvering ensures that the legacy of Reasonable Doubt will remain under his control, regardless of the outcome of the auction.
