Sony Music and DSW parent Designer Brands have jointly dismissed a copyright lawsuit over music used in the retailer’s social media promotions. The settlement terms were not disclosed.
Sony Music sued in August 2025, alleging that DSW used its recordings without authorization in promotional videos on TikTok and Instagram, including posts commissioned from influencers. Music available for personal use through a platform’s licensed library is not necessarily cleared for commercial promotions.
Designer Brands had filed its own suit in July 2025, seeking a declaration that it had not infringed copyrights held by Sony Music, Universal Music and BMG. Sony Music and DSW subsequently reached a settlement in principle.
Other claims remain in the declaratory judgment case. In a recent filing, counsel for both sides said an agreement concerning BMG Rights Management (US) LLC and Universal Music Group was nearly final and expected to be signed that week. They were also working on an agreement concerning Sony Music Publishing and expected to provide a deadline for dismissing the remaining claims before the next reporting deadline, November 28, 2026.
In a separate suit brought by Warner Music, DSW opposed a motion to file a second amended complaint that would add allegations involving about 70 influencer posts. DSW argued that the proposed changes would substantially expand the case.
