Limp Bizkit and Fred Durst file new claims against UMG in $200 million lawsuit

Fred Durst's $200 million lawsuit against Universal Music Group is moving forward with new filings. Originally launched last October, the lawsuit alleges breach of contract, fraudulent concealment, copyright infringement, and more, centered around unpaid royalties from Limp Bizkit and Durst's Flawless Records imprint.

Durst claims UMG withheld royalty payments, citing a supposed $43 million recoupment debt, despite 45 million albums sold. After hiring new financial representation, Durst allegedly uncovered over $3.3 million in unpaid royalties. UMG attributed the lack of notice to a "software error," which Durst's camp called deliberate artist exploitation.

In January, a judge dismissed Durst's copyright infringement claims but allowed other allegations to proceed. However, earlier this month, a new ruling permitted the copyright claims to move forward in federal court, requiring other claims to be refiled separately in state court.

This week, Durst, Limp Bizkit, and Flawless Records officially refiled their claims in Los Angeles Superior Court, alleging breach of contract, fraudulent business practices, unpaid compensation for video directing, and more. The lawsuit seeks rescission of their recording agreements, full accounting of royalties, and at least $33.45 million in damages, along with attorney fees. A jury trial is now in play.