Chlöe Bailey, along with Columbia Records, and Parkwood Entertainment, have been labeled “modern-day swindlers” by a songwriter and singer who is suing them for allegedly taking his work without proper payment or credit.
Melvin “4Rest” Moore filed his suit in New York federal court on Thursday (February 20). He says that he “contributed substantial original lyrics, melodies, and creative direction” to three tracks from Bailey’s 2024 album Trouble in Paradise: “Favorite,” “Might As Well” and “Same Lingerie.”
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Moore claims that Bailey and her label “failed to seek [his] permission” to use the songs, “failed to engage in good-faith negotiations” about the use of the track, and “failed to accord [Moore] proper professional writing credit for the Works or compensate him for his significant contributions.”
The “swindlers” comparison came in a section where Moore criticized Bailey and company for “fraudulently” registering copyright for the songs, “claiming exclusive authorship and ownership.”
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Moore is asking for $5 million per song and $150,000 per “willful infringement” — i.e. each time a song was used without his permission.
Moore’s attorney is Tyrone Blackburn, best known for representing Diddy accuser Lil Rod.
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Moore shared a statement to Rolling Stoneabout his suit.
“My journey as a songwriter has been one of immense struggle and perseverance. I’ve faced homelessness for two years, only to achieve homeownership 17 years later. These experiences have shaped my resilience. But even after overcoming these obstacles and achieving success, I find myself still fighting for basic fairness in how I am compensated for my work,” he said.
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“Many songwriters, producers, and artists are routinely underpaid and mistreated, their talent exploited under the false promise of opportunity,” he continued. “This cycle must end. It’s time for the industry to acknowledge the value of the creatives who bring the music to life and compensate them fairly. This fight is for all of us.”
As for Bailey, last month she was put on the spot about the rumors she is dating Burna Boy – but she didn’t supply much of a definite answer.
While visiting The Breakfast Club to promote the 2025 NAACP Image Awards, guest host Loren Lorosa grilled the singer/actress about the status of her relationship.
Chlöe remained coy at first and diverted the question, but was then directly asked if she’d be bringing Burna as her date to the awards.
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“You’ll have to ask him,” she responded.
She was again directly asked, “Is that your boo?” to which she said, “Well I’m a grown woman. I had a great time in Nigeria. I really did.”
