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George Clinton is not playing about his money. The legendary front man of Parliament, Funkadelic, and now Parliament Funkadelic, has taken Universal Music Group to court.
Why Is George Clinton Suing UMG?
The legendary funk godfather has taken the major record label to task, asking for 1.1M from the suit. Clinton claims that UMG owes him frozen royalties for the past three years.
The complaint states that UMG is withholding royalties from 1969-1990, and is allegedly hiding behind a separate lawsuit involving Clinton.
The other lawsuit reportedly involves the estate of late keyboardist Bernie Worrell. The estate claims they’re entitled to co-ownership of Funkadelic’s recordings. However, despite this claim, Clinton’s lawyers argue that UMG has already been cleared of liability from that lawsuit, citing a ruling from 2023, and therefore can not use it as a defense. On top of that, Clinton reportedly already had a judge rule in favor of him vs Worrell estate. The judge cited the claim is barred by the Copyright Act’s statute of limitations.
Clinton is reportedly seeking more than $1.1 Million in damages and the release of all withheld royalties. Furthermore, he wants an injunction blocking further withholding, and for the label to pay his attorney fees.
Parliament Funkadelic bandleader @george_clinton is suing @UMG over an alleged $1.1 million royalty freeze. https://t.co/Hop8LGtMeX
— Resident Advisor (@residentadvisor) May 19, 2026
Who Else Is Suing UMG?
George Clinton’s lawsuit follows a trend of artists fighting back against the conglomerate. Salt-N-Pepa, Iggy Azalea, and most notably, Drake all are battling the label in court.
Drake lays out details of his case on his latest album, Iceman.
