Interscope Records, a Universal Music imprint, is suing R&B (rhythm and blues) singer Summer Walker for $50 million after she invoked California’s seven-year rule to terminate her 2017 recording contract. The label alleges that she remains obligated to deliver two studio albums and one EP (extended play).
Dispute over recording obligations
Interscope filed the lawsuit on Friday, October 9, in Los Angeles County Superior Court. The label argues that Last Day of Summer and CLEAR do not satisfy Walker’s recording commitments because they are classified as “pre-album projects.”
Interscope says only three albums count toward her contractual obligation:
- Over It (2019)
- Still Over It (2021)
- Finally Over It (2025)
Walker invokes seven-year rule
The filing references an August 27 letter from Walker’s attorneys declaring the contract no longer enforceable under California’s seven-year statute. The provision stems from a 1944 law allowing individuals to leave personal services contracts after seven years.
“While we are disappointed that Interscope has chosen to pursue litigation, we are confident in Summer’s legal position and her right to challenge the continued enforceability of her recording contract with Interscope,” said Walker’s attorney, Keith Moten. “We intend to vigorously defend against Interscope’s claims and pursue appropriate legal relief.”
Label cites filing deadline
“While we remain hopeful that our ongoing discussion will lead to an amicable resolution, the statutory deadline makes it necessary to file suit in order to preserve the terms of our contract,” said an Interscope spokesperson. “We have great respect for Summer and her music and would welcome the opportunity to continue our successful partnership.”
Walker’s attorney described the agreement as highly restrictive, citing low initial advances and a heavily conditional 16% royalty rate. Interscope maintains that the terms reflected Walker’s early career stage and says it invested heavily in developing her career.
