Kanye West’s ‘Vultures 1’ Album Sparks Legal Dispute with Donna Summer’s Estate

Donna Summer’s estate is suing Kanye West, alleging that he unlawfully misappropriated the late singer’s hit “I Feel Love” after denying his request to sample it.

The rapper asked the estate for permission to use a part of the song in January 2024 on his album “Vultures 1,” but the estate, which still has a stake in the record, refused because of West’s troubled past.

Despite the estate refusing permission, West seemingly added the interpolation to his song “Good (Don’t Die).”  The estate further describes that track as a work featuring an “unauthorized soundalike” version of the 1971 song.

The estate is seeking substantial damages and an injunction to cease any further exploitation of the song. Several streaming services have already withdrawn “Hey Ms. Donda,” and it has also been removed from the “Vultures” album and physical copies.

Representatives for West didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.

Just this week, the rapper faced allegations over unapproved use of samples, as he used a song by Ozzy Osbourne after the rocker refused to grant permission.

Osbourne himself called West an “antisemite” and said he wanted to “piss on him.” after the rapper premiered the record using that sample at a private album listening party.

West released a new album on Feb. 9 to mixed reviews. While in Europe, he will promote the record and be accompanied by his 10-year-old daughter North at a release party in Paris.

On stage, the duo performed their song “Talking/Once Again.” North got all the plaudits. During a previous release party in Milan, attendees spotted West hanging out with his wife, Bianca Censori.