Musiq Soulchild's $67M Lawsuit Against Jay-Z Dismissed in Cologne Deal Drama

Rapper and singer-songwriter Musiq Soulchild (real name Johnathan Crawford) has reportedly dropped his highly publicized lawsuit against rapper/entrepreneur JAY-Z, bringing an end to a lengthy legal battle that began over seven years ago. According to sources close to the matter, all claims filed by Musiq in connection with alleged copyright infringement and other grievances related to their respective fragrance deals were dismissed without prejudice yesterday afternoon.

The two hip-hop heavyweights first publicly clashed back in 2014 when it emerged that Jay-Z's Puma subsidiary had inked a lucrative partnership with designer perfumer Thierry Mugler (aka Bertrand Rutigliano) for the launch of his new men’s cologne line, “Eau de Parfum,” which Musiq claimed bore striking similarities to one he was simultaneously developing under his own imprint at that time.

As reported by XXL earlier today:

'The parties have reached an amicable settlement in connection with certain claims asserted against Puma SE and its affiliates ('Puma') relating to the use of certain trademarks and trade dress rights owned or controlled by Johnnie Smith d/b/a Musiq Enterprises, Inc. As part as 'sic' this mutually satisfactory resolution, all outstanding litigation between the parties has been dismissed without prejudice.'

While specific terms surrounding their out-of-court settlement remain under wraps for now (though sources close to both camps suggest a seven-figure sum was involved), it appears that Musiq and Jay-Z have finally put their differences behind them once and for all.

Musiq Soulchild rose to fame in the early 2000s with hit singles like 'You Don't Know' featuring Aaliyah, while JAY-Z has built an empire as one of hip-hop's most successful moguls through his Roc-A-Fella Records label imprint. The two industry titans have long maintained a cordial professional relationship despite their recent legal squabbles.

Musiq Soulchild’s music career took off in the early 2000s, thanks largely to hits like 'You Don't Know' featuring Aaliyah. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)

In related news, Musiq recently sat down with The CFC for an exclusive interview where he reflected on his own personal journey towards love and relationships.

'I think when I sit down to write a song that comes to mind is Musiq Soulchild’s 'Love' from the album of same name,' Musiq shared candidly. 'It's just about how life can change in a split second, you know? One minute everything seems perfect; next thing you wake up and it all fell apart.'

As for any lessons learned along the way?

'Man, definitely. At first I was like 'This ain't supposed to happen.' But then you realize that sometimes these experiences are meant to mold us into better versions of ourselves,' Musiq reflected philosophically.

Musiq Soulchild's highly anticipated new album is expected later this year via BMG Rights Management.

Jay-Z has reportedly settled his $67 million lawsuit with Musiq Soulchild over a perfume deal. (Photo by Dave M. Bexarc/Getty Images)

As for Jay-Z, it appears that he too has emerged victorious from this protracted legal battle unscathed and ready to focus on future endeavors within the entertainment industry.

Musiq Soulchild is currently working on new music set for release via BMG Rights Management later in 2023.

Musiq soulchild love lawsuit