An intense legal battle has erupted between R&B star Summer Walker and Interscope Records. According to Rolling Stone, Universal Music Group filed a $50 million breach-of-contract lawsuit in Los Angeles County Superior Court against Walker after she invoked California’s “seven-year rule” to exit her 2017 record deal.
While Interscope claims the singer still owes two studio albums and an EP under her agreement, Walker’s legal team maintains she has fulfilled her contractual timeline. The move sets the stage for a high-stakes standoff between the multi-platinum artist and her longtime label.
When Walker partnered with Interscope and LVRN in 2017, she reportedly agreed to a five-album deal. Interscope’s suit asserts that only three of her releases—Over It (2019), Still Over It (2021), and Finally Over It (2025)—qualify. Extended plays like Last Day of Summer and CLEAR are considered pre-album efforts and are excluded from her contractual obligations.
SUMMER WALKER’S RESPONSE TO THE LAWSUIT
In response to the suit, Keith Moten, Walker’s attorney, released a statement, according to Billboard.
“While we are disappointed that Interscope has chosen to pursue litigation,” Moten said. “We are confident in Summer’s legal position and her right to challenge the continued enforceability of her recording contract with Interscope.”
“Summer has made extraordinary contributions to Interscope’s success,” Moten continued. “We believe she deserves the opportunity to move forward under terms that fairly recognize her value as an artist.”We intend to vigorously defend against Interscope’s claims and pursue appropriate legal relief.”
Moten also noted that they plan to countersue Interscope but “emphasized that an amicable settlement with Interscope would be a welcome outcome.
“The parties’ discussions have remained professional, and Summer remains open to a constructive resolution. She hopes that the matter can be resolved in a manner that respects the interests of all involved and avoids unnecessary or prolonged litigation. In the meantime, Summer remains focused on her music, her artistry, her children, and her fans,” said Moten