"Harlem Shake" compensation is being requested by two acts who claim that they were never paid for their songs which are featured on the now popular track. On March 11, the Miami Herald reported that Hector Delgado and Jayson Musson are seeking compensation now that Baauer's song is topping the charts. Or maybe that's just a coincidence.
According to the report, "Delgado's 'Maldades' and 'Miller Time' by Musson's former rap group, Plastic Little, are said to be sampled in 'Harlem Shake.'" Both artists claim that they never gave Baauer permission to use their tracks in any way. It is unknown how much money the artists are asking for.
"Harlem Shake" compensation is being sought from Mad Decent Records. The song was released in May of 2012 as a free download... Hector Delgado and Jayson Musson didn't come forward for any cash then. Now? Well with over 800,000 paid downloads it sounds like these guys want a piece of the pie. Perhaps they deserve it...
According to MTV, Delgado and Musson actually provide some of the most prominent lyrics on the track. Delgado is responsible for the "Con los terroristas" scream at the beginning of the song. Musson's voice can be heard during the refrain. He says, "Do the Harlem Shake."
Will the guys receive compensation for their "contributions" to the "Harlem Shake"? Should they?
© Effie Orfanides 2013
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