In just weeks Baauer‘s “Harlem Shake” has become an undeniable viral hit, and now sits atop the BillboardĀ Hot 100.Ā Onlookers have been arguing whether the trackĀ is an innovation or a slap in the face to a cultural movement, but Hector “El Father” Delgado and Jayson Musson could care less. Both artists have actually readied their lawyers, and areĀ seeking compensation for uncredited sample use on the track.
DelgadoĀ is the reggaetĆ³n artist whose voice can be heard at the beginning of the track, while Musson is the Philadelphia rapperĀ who says “do the Harlem shake.” Neither artists were reportedly informed, or properly compensated for the visage of their vocals on Baauer’s track.
Both artists are said to be in talks with Baauerās label, Mad Decent, which hopefully means that things will be resolved amicably. Although, Delgadoās manager Javier GomezĀ countered told the NY Times, “We can turn around and stop that song. Thatās a clear breaking of intellectual property rights.”
Delgado’s vocals are from his track “Maldades” on his 2006 album That Bad Boy, and Musson’s words are from his days in Philly rap group Plastic Little.Ā The latter has been in contact with Mad Decent, who he says have “been more than cooperative.”
HearĀ Delgado’s “Maldades” below, and hearĀ “Miller Time” by Plastic Little on the following page. The latter’s sample can be found around the 3:54 mark.
