Erica Campbell’s Label Sues Distributor Over Gospel Music Royalties

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Published: 2026-09-17T23:46:13.819Z • Permanent link

Erica Campbell's label, My First Church, is suing its distributor, Sony Music Entertainment, over unpaid gospel music royalties. The lawsuit, filed in the United States District Court for the Central District of California, alleges that Sony failed to pay My First Church the required royalties for the distribution of their music. Erica Campbell, a renowned gospel singer and songwriter, is the founder of My First Church. Campbell has been a prominent figure in the gospel music industry for over two decades, known for her powerful voice and hit singles such as "Wonderful" and "You're Bigger.

The lawsuit claims that Sony has been withholding royalties from My First Church since 2018, resulting in a total of over $1 million in unpaid royalties. The company is seeking damages and an accounting of all royalties owed to My First Church. Sony Music Entertainment has not commented publicly on the lawsuit, but a spokesperson for the company stated that they "take all allegations of royalty disputes seriously and will vigorously defend themselves in court." The lawsuit has sparked attention in the gospel music industry, with many artists and fans taking to social media to express their support for Campbell and My First Church.

The dispute highlights the complexities of music distribution and the challenges faced by artists in collecting their fair share of royalties. The music industry is a multi-billion-dollar market, with artists and labels relying on royalties to fund their careers and create new music. However, the process of collecting royalties can be complicated, with multiple parties involved and varying rates and payment schedules. The lawsuit is a reminder that even large companies like Sony Music Entertainment can be held accountable for their actions, and that artists and labels must work together to ensure that they receive the royalties they deserve.

The unpaid royalties at the center of the lawsuit have significant implications for the gospel music industry and the artists who rely on it for their livelihoods. My First Church is one of the largest and most successful gospel music labels, with a catalog of hits that have topped the charts and sold millions of copies worldwide. The unpaid royalties will not only affect Campbell and My First Church but also their employees, affiliates, and the wider gospel music community.

The lawsuit also highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in the music industry. The complexities of music distribution and the varying rates and payment schedules can lead to confusion and disputes, which can have serious consequences for artists and labels. The lawsuit demonstrates that even with the best intentions, companies can fail to meet their obligations, and that artists and labels must take action to protect their rights.

The dispute also has broader implications for the music industry as a whole. The lawsuit may lead to changes in the way that royalties are collected and paid, and could potentially impact the way that music is distributed and marketed. The gospel music industry is a significant contributor to the global music market, and any changes to the way that royalties are collected and paid could have far-reaching consequences.