Legendary Ghanaian hip-hop performer Michael Elliot Kwabena Okyere Darko, often known as Obrafour, has filed a lawsuit against Grammy-winning rapper Drake for alleged copyright violations.
The Grammy-winning artist is being sued by the famed Ghanaian musician for using a sample of his massive hit song “Oye Ohene” ft. Tinny (Remix) in the single “Calling My Name”.
Drake had asked for permission to utilize the piece, but his request was rejected. He continued to release the song despite being stopped. As a result, Obrafour is asking for at least $10 million in compensation.
The renowned Ghanaian rapper’s attorneys are requesting that the court rule that the defendant “willfully infringed Obrafour’s Copyrighted Work in violation of the Copyright” and filed the lawsuit in the Southern District of New York.
Drake joins a list of Hollywood artists who have faced similar lawsuits for unauthorized use of samples, including Kanye West, Robin Thicke, and Pharrell Williams.
He earned the first Grammy of his career for Best Rap Album for his 2011 studio album, Take Care. He made his Grammy performance debut at the 52nd Grammy.
