Judge Dismisses Copyright Lawsuit Against Cardi B

A federal judge dismissed a $50 million copyright lawsuit tied to Cardi B on March 30. U.S. District Judge Fernando Rodriguez threw out the case without prejudice.

Court ruling and plaintiffs’ allegations

Plaintiffs Joshua Fraustro and Miguel Aguilar had accused Cardi B of copying their song. They said their track “Greasy Frybread” appeared on FX’s Reservation Dogs.

The rapper released “Enough (Miami)” in July 2024. The plaintiffs claimed that release caused blacklisting and reputational harm in the music industry.

Basis for dismissal and jurisdiction issues

Judge Rodriguez found the state-law claims were preempted by federal copyright law. He also ruled that Cardi B’s Texas performances did not give the court proper jurisdiction.

Because the complaint was dismissed without prejudice, the plaintiffs may refile the case. Their attorney said they intend to pursue the claims in an appropriate forum.

Registration and procedural history

The plaintiffs initially brought a federal copyright infringement claim. Cardi’s counsel noted they lacked a copyright registration at the time.

Soon after, the plaintiffs shifted their argument to Texas law. Reports indicate they later obtained a copyright registration in October 2025.

Reaction from Cardi B’s team and next steps

Cardi B’s lawyer said the legal team was pleased with the ruling. They thanked the court for carefully considering the issues.

The dismissal does not permanently bar future federal claims tied to copyright registration. Observers note the matter could return to court if plaintiffs refile properly.

Context: Cardi B’s recent legal record

This ruling adds to a string of recent legal wins for the artist. Last September, a security guard’s assault accusation against her failed at trial.

She also won a 2022 defamation suit against the blogger Tasha K. Judges previously ruled in her favor in a New York libel case and a federal dispute over a mixtape cover.

• Case dismissed without prejudice on March 30.
• Plaintiffs: Joshua Fraustro and Miguel Aguilar.
• Disputed works: “Greasy Frybread” and “Enough (Miami)”.
• Judge: Fernando Rodriguez, U.S. District Court.
• Plaintiffs later obtained copyright registration in October 2025.

Filmogaz.com will monitor further developments if the plaintiffs refile. The judge dismisses this copyright lawsuit, but the dispute may continue. Cardi B’s legal team appears prepared for future challenges.