Cher Wins Final Legal Judgment in Royalties Battle with Sonny Bono’s Estate

A federal judge has issued a final ruling in Cher’s long-running royalties case. The decision is a major victory for the music icon. It involves her share of Sonny & Cher song royalties.

The judgment ends a four-year legal fight with Mary Bono. Mary is the widow of Cher’s former partner, Sonny Bono. The ruling solidifies Cher’s financial rights to their classic hits.

Judge Upholds Divorce Agreement Over Copyright Law

Judge John A. Kronstadt signed the final judgment on November 26. He ruled that Cher’s 1978 divorce agreement with Sonny Bono is legally binding. This agreement grants her 50% of composition and recording royalties.

Mary Bono had tried to use copyright law to terminate those rights. The judge found California contract law overrules that federal provision. According to Rolling Stone, this was the core issue of the case.

The ruling protects Cher’s stake in songs like “I Got You Babe.” It also covers “The Beat Goes On.” These hits defined the duo’s career in the 1960s.

Cher Retains Control Despite Selling Royalty Stake

Another key part of the judgment concerns Cher’s 2022 deal. She sold her royalty rights to Irving Azoff’s Iconic Artists Group. However, the judge ruled she keeps her right to collect payments directly.

Mary Bono wanted to pay Iconic directly, bypassing Cher. The court said no. Cher also retains approval rights over third-party composition contracts.

Furthermore, Cher was deemed the prevailing party. The judge awarded her the right to recover significant legal costs. Mary Bono plans to appeal the decision.

Her lawyer stated they believe the judge misinterpreted copyright law. They argue authors and their heirs must have the rights Congress intended.

This final judgment closes a major chapter for Cher, securing her legacy and financial interests in the iconic Sonny & Cher catalog for the long term.

A quick knowledge drop for you

What was the main legal issue in Cher’s case?

Mary Bono tried to use the U.S. Copyright Act to reclaim royalty shares granted to Cher in her 1978 divorce from Sonny. The judge ruled that the divorce contract, governed by California law, takes precedence over the federal termination right.

Does this affect Cher’s deal with Iconic Artists Group?

No. The judge specifically ruled that Cher’s 2022 sale to Iconic does not change her right to be the direct recipient of royalty payments. She also keeps approval power over related composition contracts.

What happens next in this legal battle?

Mary Bono’s lawyer confirmed they will appeal the judgment. The process will move to a higher court. The core dispute over copyright termination rights will continue.

Which famous songs were part of this dispute?

The case involved the royalties for the entire Sonny & Cher catalog. This includes global hits like “I Got You Babe” and “The Beat Goes On,” which remain popular and valuable today.

Why is this ruling significant for the music industry?

It reinforces the power of longstanding personal contracts, like divorce settlements, over newer copyright termination claims. This provides stability for artists who rely on such agreements.