Disgraced rapper Sean 'Diddy' Combs reportedly pays Sting an eye-watering amount of money each day over the unauthorised use of one of the music legend's most famous songs.
Combs was arrested by federal agents on September 16 at a New York City hotel, and the charges also include allegations of sexual assault, kidnapping, arson, and firearm possession, alongside shocking revelations of days-long sexual 'freak offs.'
While Combs' current legal troubles dominate the news, a past copyright infringement case has resurfaced - and it appears the record executive is still paying a hefty price after sampling one of Sting's hits almost two decades ago.
In 1997, Combs released the chart-topping hit 'I'll Be Missing You' as a tribute to New York rapper The Notorious B.I.G., who had been murdered earlier that year.
Disgraced rapper Sean ' Diddy' Combs (right) reportedly pays Sting (left) a shocking amount of money each day over the unauthorised use of one of the punk legend's most famous songs
Featuring vocals from Biggie's wife Faith Evans, the song became an international sensation, spending 11 weeks at the top of the US Billboard Hot 100 and winning a Grammy for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group.
However, the hit track sampled Sting's 1983 classic 'Every Breath You Take' without permission, leading to a costly legal settlement.
In a 2018 interview on The Breakfast Club, the former Police frontman revealed that he receives $2,000 (£1,494) a day from Diddy for the use of the song, a fee that will reportedly be paid for the rest of Combs' life.
In the resurfaced clip, radio host Charlamagne Tha God asked Sting if it was true that Combs had to pay him daily royalties for the sample, to which Sting confirmed: 'Yeah, for the rest of his life.'
Charlemagne probed, 'But did he ask for permission... after the fact?' to which Sting answered: 'Yes, he did.'
In a twist of humour, Combs later jokingly tweeted that the actual amount was even higher, claiming in a post on X: 'Nope. 5K a day. Love to my brother @OfficialSting!'
However, he later clarified his comment, admitting he was joking. He explained in a follow-up post: 'I want y'all to understand I was joking! It's called being facetious!'
Combs reassured fans that he and Sting are longtime friends and that Sting likely earns far more than $5,000 daily from the track.
In a 2018 interview on The Breakfast Club, the former Police frontman revealed that he receives $2,000 (£1,494) a day from Diddy for the use of the song
Combs has since reassured fans that he and Sting are longtime friends and that Sting likely earns far more than $5,000 daily from the iconic track
He explained: 'He never charged me $3K or $5K a day for Missing You. He probably makes more than $5K a day from one of the biggest songs in history. LOVE.'
The Cost of 'I'll Be Missing You'
The daily payment to Sting is just one of the financial burdens Combs faces. He is currently embroiled in a legal battle stemming from charges of sex trafficking and racketeering, and he has been denied bail twice. This has led to speculation about the financial impact these legal troubles will have on Combs and his business empire. The legal fees for defending against these charges are likely to be substantial, adding to the already hefty costs Combs is incurring.
The Ongoing Legal Battle
Combs' legal troubles extend beyond the copyright case with Sting. He has been accused of running a criminal enterprise involving his associates and employees, using his influence to coerce and abuse women. The indictment alleges a range of offenses, including sex trafficking, forced labor, kidnapping, arson, bribery, and obstruction of justice.
Diddy's Children in the Middle
Amidst the legal and financial turmoil, Combs’ children have also been affected. Sources close to the family report that Combs' children are in a state of shock and crisis. With Combs behind bars, his children are coping with the absence of their father, and the youngest are facing the added hardship of having no living parent available to them.
Diddy's Rise and Fall
Sean "Diddy" Combs has built an impressive career over the past three decades. He started as an intern at Uptown Records and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a successful record producer, entrepreneur, and media mogul. He founded Bad Boy Records, which propelled the careers of artists like The Notorious B.I.G., Mary J. Blige, and Usher. Combs has also been a prominent figure in fashion, television, and film.
However, recent legal battles have cast a shadow over Combs’s accomplishments and have raised questions about his character and business practices. These legal troubles have put a strain on his personal and professional life and have created a sense of uncertainty about his future. It remains to be seen how these legal challenges will impact Combs’ legacy and influence.
Looking Ahead
The upcoming hearing on October 9 will be a pivotal moment in Combs' legal journey. The outcome of this hearing could determine whether Combs remains behind bars or is released on bail. Regardless of the decision, Combs will continue to face a difficult path ahead as he navigates these legal challenges. The saga of Diddy's fall from grace continues to unfold, and the public eagerly awaits the next chapter in this unfolding drama.
