Nigerian singer Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, is facing a lawsuit in a New York court over alleged song theft. Haitian music star Fabrice Rouzier claims that Burna Boy’s collaboration with French-Haitian singer Joe Gilles on the song “4 Kampe II” features Rouzier’s 2002 song “Je Vais” without permission.
According to court documents, Gilles initially released “4 Kampe” in fall 2024, which Rouzier claims heavily features the story, music composition, sound recording, and video material from “Je Vais.” Rouzier issued a cease and desist letter to Gilles, who allegedly admitted to the accusations of infringement.
Despite the warning, Gilles released a remix of the song with Burna Boy titled “4 Kampe II” on March 28, 2025, which Rouzier claims again mimics “Je Vais.” The plaintiff alleges that the duo continued to engage in conduct that caused serious damages, including lost profits, lost opportunities, and loss of goodwill.
Rouzier is seeking compensatory and exemplary damages against Gilles and Burna Boy. He is also seeking reimbursement of reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs. Additionally, Rouzier is praying the court to grant an order barring Mr. Gilles, Burna Boy, and their representatives from further use of his persona, image, and likeness in connection with “4 Kampe” and “4 Kampe II.”
The case is ongoing in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York.
