Jay Z X Timbaland Win in ‘Big Pimpin’ Sample Trial (Law Suit)

Jay Z and Timbaland have won a lawsuit claiming that they infringed on the rights to a sample used in their mega hit “Big Pimpin'” back in 2000. A judge ruled Wednesday that the nephew of Egyptian composer Baligh Hamdi, whose “Khosara, Khosara” originated the hip-hop tune’s funky flute hook did not have enough to pursue his claim against the rapper and producer. The composer’s nephew filed the lawsuit back in 2007. Another family member of Baligh Hamdi, Osama Fahmy, also claims the musicians had continued to distribute the song without regard for Egypt’s moral rights laws. Timbaland used the sample believing it was public domain. Attorney David Steinberg, who represented Universal Music and Warner Music. stated, “After a lengthy litigation, defendants have been vindicated in their position that they have every right to exploit ‘Big Pimpin” wherever they choose, including in records, films and concerts.”