Hip-hop pioneers Salt-N-Pepa are taking legal action against Universal Music Group (UMG), claiming the label wrongfully denied their attempt to reclaim ownership of two of their most iconic albums.
According to a new lawsuit, the legendary rap duo—comprised of Cheryl “Salt” James and Sandra “Pepa” Denton—filed a notice of termination rights in 2022 for their first two albums: 1986’s Hot, Cool & Vicious and 1988’s A Salt With a Deadly Pepa. These notices were intended to regain control of their music under U.S. copyright law, which allows creators to reclaim rights decades after release.
However, Salt-N-Pepa allege UMG dismissed their filings, claiming the albums were “works made for hire”—a designation that would permanently assign rights to the label. The lawsuit counters that assertion, stating the duo were independent artists and should be entitled to exercise their termination rights.
“UMG appears to take the position that it can unilaterally decide when and/or if a recording artist is entitled to termination,” Salt-N-Pepa’s attorneys wrote. “This is not the law, and UMG does not have this power.”
Adding to the controversy, the group claims UMG has since pulled both albums from major U.S. streaming platforms, effectively cutting off domestic access to some of their most iconic tracks—including the enduring classic “Push It.” The albums reportedly remain available internationally.
Salt-N-Pepa are seeking a court declaration that their termination rights are valid, along with more than $1 million in damages.
The lawsuit continues a growing trend of legendary artists fighting to regain control of their work as copyright windows close. With hip-hop celebrating its 50th anniversary, the case brings fresh attention to artists’ rights in an industry that has long profited from their creativity.