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Alexis Roderick Joel said that their family is "so grateful for the wonderful care and swift diagnosis we received." - This follows his June 2025 diagnosis of a brain disorder.
With an estimated net worth of $250 million, Billy Joel stands as one of the most commercially successful and enduring figures in music history. He’s sold over 160 million records worldwide, building a career on heartfelt storytelling, infectious melodies, and an uncanny ability to make the personal feel universal. His rise to fame in the late ’70s and early ’80s was marked by a string of iconic albums—The Stranger, 52nd Street, Glass Houses, and An Innocent Man—each filled with tracks that have become American pop standards. “Piano Man,” his breakthrough 1973 anthem, remains a defining piece of his legacy, earning its place as a timeless barroom ballad known around the world.
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Beyond record sales, Joel's live performances have become a financial powerhouse. Between 2017 and 2019 alone, he reportedly brought in over $50 million, with single-night earnings from his Madison Square Garden residency ranging from $2 to $4 million. His 2019 New Year’s Eve show alone grossed $4.6 million. Since launching his historic MSG residency in 2014, he’s earned over $150 million just from that venue—cementing not only his place in music history but also in the upper echelons of touring profitability.
Billy Joel's story begins in the Bronx, New York, where he was born to Howard and Rosalind Joel, the son of a classical pianist who fled Nazi Germany. After divorcing Billy's mother in 1957, Howard Joel returned to Europe and settled in Austria, where he remarried and eventually became a successful businessman. Billy would later reconnect with his half-brother, Alexander Joel, who also pursued a career in music and served as a conductor in Germany.
Billy and his sister Judy were raised by their mother, Rosalind, in Hicksville, Long Island. The new HBO documentary Billy Joel: And So It Goes reveals more of their difficult upbringing. According to both siblings, their mother—though loving and devoted—struggled emotionally and was likely undiagnosed bipolar. Judy recalled how their home was filled with unpredictable emotional outbursts and episodes of alcohol-fueled distress. “We knew something was very wrong, but we didn’t have the language for it then,” she said. Billy described his mother as isolated and often lonely, but also said, “She was my cheerleader. She believed in me when nobody else did.”
Meanwhile, their father Howard, though musically gifted, was distant and occasionally abusive. Billy remembered being knocked unconscious by his father for altering a classical piano piece into rock 'n' roll. Despite the pain, both siblings agreed that their childhood hardships bonded them closely together and helped shape Billy’s determination and musical voice.
At just four years old, Billy was placed into classical piano lessons by his mother—a move that would set the stage for his entire career. Despite his musical talents, Joel struggled academically. He missed high school graduation due to insufficient credits, later earning his diploma at age 43 by submitting essays to the school board. His teenage years were marked by emotional upheaval. In 1967, he joined a local band, The Echoes, which soon became The Hassles. This early foray into rock music opened doors but also introduced Joel to a world of betrayal and despair.
in the Bronx, New York, where he was born to Howard and Rosalind Joel, the son of a classical pianist who fled Nazi Germany. After divorcing Billy's mother in 1957, Howard Joel returned to Europe and settled in Austria, where he remarried and eventually became a successful businessman. Billy would later reconnect with his half-brother, Alexander Joel, who also pursued a career in music and served as a conductor in Germany. Raised in Hicksville, Long Island, Billy’s early years were shaped by the clash between his father’s musical legacy and the everyday pressures of suburban American life. At just four years old, Billy was placed into classical piano lessons by his mother—a move that would set the stage for his entire career.
Despite his musical talents, Joel struggled academically. He missed high school graduation due to insufficient credits, later earning his diploma at age 43 by submitting essays to the school board. His teenage years were marked by emotional upheaval. In 1967, he joined a local band, The Echoes, which soon became The Hassles. This early foray into rock music opened doors but also introduced Joel to a world of betrayal and despair.
As revealed in the June 2025 HBO documentary Billy Joel: And So It Goes, Joel's early twenties nearly ended in tragedy. At 21, he fell in love with Elizabeth Weber—his bandmate Jon Small's wife—and the affair tore apart the band Attila. When Small discovered the betrayal, it led to a physical fight and a collapse in Joel's emotional stability. Weber left both men, and Joel spiraled.
"I was just in a lot of pain and thought tomorrow would be just as bad as today," Joel says in the documentary. He attempted suicide twice—first with sleeping pills that left him in a coma, and then with lemon furniture polish. His sister Judy and former friend Jon Small saved his life both times. The experience led him to check into an observation ward, where he began to see that his pain could be channeled into music.
Billy Joel’s solo career didn’t begin with fireworks—it began with frustration. His 1971 debut album, Cold Spring Harbor, was plagued by a mastering error that sped up the recording, distorting his voice. While the album flopped commercially, Joel’s songwriting potential caught the attention of Columbia Records. They signed him in 1972, setting the stage for his breakout.
In 1973, Joel released Piano Man, a semi-autobiographical album inspired by his time playing in a bar in Los Angeles. The title track became a classic and gave him his now-iconic nickname. From there, Joel’s momentum was undeniable. He followed up with Streetlife Serenade (1974) and Turnstiles (1976), albums that steadily built his reputation as a gifted storyteller.
His real breakthrough came in 1977 with The Stranger, which produced a string of hits including "Just the Way You Are," "Only the Good Die Young," and "Movin' Out." The album sold over 10 million copies and marked Joel’s arrival as a mainstream force.
Joel followed it up with a succession of critically and commercially successful albums:
By the 1990s, Joel had joined the ranks of the world's best-selling artists. He officially stepped away from recording pop music after River of Dreams (1993), focusing instead on live performances and later classical compositions. In 2001, he released Fantasies & Delusions, a collection of original classical piano pieces performed by Richard Hyung-ki Joo, underscoring his versatility as a composer.
In 1971, Joel released his debut solo album Cold Spring Harbor. Due to a mastering error, the album played at the wrong speed, and it flopped commercially. Still, his songwriting caught the attention of Columbia Records. In 1973, he released Piano Man, the album that introduced the world to his storytelling style. The title track became an anthem and gave Joel his nickname.
Through the '70s and '80s, Joel became a force in music with albums like:
By the 1990s, Joel had sold over 150 million records. Though he stopped recording pop albums after River of Dreams (1993), he later explored classical music with Fantasies & Delusions (2001).
While Billy Joel has long been considered one of America's premier songwriters, it’s his ability to consistently fill arenas that sets him apart from most artists. Beginning in 2014, Joel launched a once-a-month residency at Madison Square Garden that would stretch over a decade. During that time, he played more than 104 sold-out shows for over 2 million fans, grossing an estimated $260 million in ticket revenue alone by 2024. The residency is scheduled to conclude on July 25, 2025, with his 150th performance at the Garden—marking a cultural milestone in New York music history.
Each show generated as much as $3 million, making him one of the highest-grossing live performers globally. While other artists leaned into constant touring, Joel’s monthly residency format allowed him to maintain a steady income while minimizing travel—an innovation that many have since tried to replicate.
Billy Joel and Axl Rose
In 2014, Joel began a monthly residency at Madison Square Garden—a venture that would redefine live performance economics. With more than 104 sold-out shows and over 2 million attendees, the residency grossed an astonishing $260 million by 2024. His final show in the series is set for July 25, 2025, marking his 150th performance at the venue.
Joel reportedly earned up to $3 million per show, making him one of the highest-grossing live performers of all time.
Joel’s first wife, Elizabeth Weber, returned to his life in 1973 and became both his spouse and manager. But she also introduced him to her brother, Frank Weber, who would ultimately mishandle $30 million of Joel’s earnings. Joel sued Frank for $90 million in 1989 but only recovered about $8 million. The betrayal forced Joel to tour relentlessly in the '90s and early 2000s just to recoup his losses.
Additionally, Joel filed lawsuits against his attorneys and accountants who had failed to detect Frank Weber's misconduct. While Joel never fully recovered the total lost amount, he managed to stabilize his finances through constant touring and careful rebuilding. These financial challenges taught him hard lessons about trust, oversight, and the vulnerabilities of fame.
Piano Man': Billy Joel's ex-wife Christie Brinkley
The woman who inspired “She’s Got a Way” and “She’s Always a Woman” also played a devastating role in Joel’s financial collapse. Their marriage ended in heartbreak and millions lost.
Supermodel Brinkley and Joel had a fairy-tale wedding and a daughter, Alexa Ray. But Joel’s financial troubles and constant touring strained their relationship to the breaking point.
Billy Joel, Christie Brinkley and Alexa Ray Joel
Joel met Katie, then 23, when he was 55. Their marriage lasted five years and ended with her receiving a Manhattan townhouse.
A former hedge fund manager turned equestrian, Alexis brought peace and stability to Joel’s life. They share two daughters, Della Rose and Remy Anne.
Billy Joel has long been known for his impressive real estate investments, many of which he personally redesigned or renovated. One of his most notable properties is the sprawling estate on Centre Island in Oyster Bay, New York. Originally purchased for $22.5 million in 2002, Joel gradually expanded the estate to a total of 26 acres. It features a 20,000-square-foot main house, a helipad, multiple guest houses, a private beach, and two swimming pools. In May 2023, he listed the property for $49 million. In March 2025, he sold a five-acre portion of the estate, known as the gatehouse section, for $8.5 million.
Billy Joel's 26-acre estate, Middle Sea, facing the sparkling Oyster Bay Harbour. The property also features a helipad, a beach house, and two pools.
Finished in the early 1990s but designed to reflect the grandeur of the Gilded Age, the red-brick main house features five en-suite bedrooms and an impressive total of 11 bathrooms.
The estate quietly hit the market in the summer of 2023 but didn’t attract the ultra-wealthy buyer a property of its magnitude typically demands. While the reason for the listing remained unclear at the time, Billy Joel has since revealed to The New York Times that rising taxes were a major factor. The annual property tax alone totals a staggering $567,686—exceeding the average cost of a home in both the U.S. and the U.K.
Among the estate’s standout features is a two-lane bowling alley, seamlessly integrated into the home’s array of luxurious amenities.
Joel also owns a luxury estate in Manalapan, Florida. Purchased in 2015 for $22.5 million, this 13,000-square-foot oceanfront mansion was listed for sale in early 2024 for $55 million, later reduced to $50 million. The property includes expansive ocean views and high-end finishes typical of South Florida's elite properties.
In addition to these major holdings, Joel retains a home in Sag Harbor, New York—a beloved East End retreat. Despite selling parts of his Centre Island property, Joel has made it clear that he is not leaving Long Island, reaffirming his deep-rooted ties to the area.
Billy Joel's Sag Harbor Property.
Billy Joel’s car collection tells you as much about the man as his music does. Rather than chasing rare hypercars or million-dollar exotics, Joel fills his garage with classics that whisper history and heart. Take his 1973 Volkswagen Beetle—picked up for under $20,000 after a post-show detour in Des Moines.
It’s modest, even by collector standards, but Joel was drawn to its iconic curves and nostalgic charm. His 1962 Jaguar Mark II, valued around $60,000, oozes vintage elegance and underwent a tasteful custom sound system upgrade that keeps the past and present in perfect harmony.
1963 Jaguar Mark II
He also owned a 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 500 (approx. $15,000 today), which he famously crashed—and survived—underscoring both the car’s safety and Joel’s no-nonsense taste. Even his first car, a humble 1973 Audi Fox, and the whimsical 1967 Citroën 2CV he bought for then-wife Christie Brinkley, reveal a collector who chooses memory over muscle. Altogether, Joel’s eclectic fleet is valued in the low six figures—not for bragging rights, but because each car drives home a personal story. Just like his songs.
Even with decades of music behind him, Billy Joel’s influence continues to evolve. He’s collected accolades that most musicians only dream of: six Grammy Awards, 23 nominations, and inductions into both the Songwriters Hall of Fame (1992) and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (1999). In 2013, he received the Kennedy Center Honors, a formal nod to his cultural impact in American arts.
In 2024, Joel surprised fans with a rare treat—his first original pop single in two decades, Turn the Lights Back On. The track served as both a nostalgic callback and a subtle farewell, steeped in the emotional themes that have long defined his songwriting.
The 2025 release of the HBO documentary And So It Goes peeled back the curtain on Joel’s life in a way few artists allow. By openly discussing his mental health struggles and suicide attempts in his twenties, Joel added depth to a legacy built not only on success, but on survival. The documentary reminded fans that Joel’s most powerful instrument has always been his vulnerability.
Billy Joel’s accolades include:
He released his first new pop single in two decades, Turn the Lights Back On, in 2024—proving his creative fire still burns. The documentary And So It Goes has added emotional depth to his legacy, showing the world the man behind the piano.
In May 2025, Billy Joel revealed he had been diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus, a rare brain condition caused by an abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain’s ventricles.
The diagnosis forced him to cancel a series of scheduled performances, as doctors advised that the condition—exacerbated by recent concerts—was affecting his hearing, vision, and balance. While the news stunned fans, Joel remained characteristically candid and resilient. In a message shared through the directors of his HBO documentary Billy Joel: And So It Goes, he quipped, “Getting old sucks, but it’s still preferable to getting cremated.” Currently undergoing physical therapy, Joel is expected to make a full recovery—and according to director Susan Lacy, he’s determined to return to the stage.
Billy Joel’s journey has never followed a straight line. From suburban New York to global superstardom, from suicide attempts to stadium tours, his path has been marked by reinvention, risk, and raw honesty. Billy Joel's net worth is estimated at $250 million—is just one measure of success. The true wealth lies in his music, his resilience, and his ability to capture the human condition in song.
Even as he prepares to take his final bow at Madison Square Garden in July 2025, Joel continues to perform, evolve, and inspire. His story is a testament to survival, artistry, and the long arc of redemption. Through heartbreak and triumph, he remains—above all—the Piano Man.
When did Billy Joel come out?
Billy Joel has never publicly identified as anything other than heterosexual. The phrase “come out” is not applicable in his case.
Who is the love of Billy Joel's life?
While Joel has had several high-profile relationships and four marriages, many fans believe his first deep, albeit troubled, love was Elizabeth Weber. Others might argue his lasting relationship with Alexis Roderick, his current wife, represents true stability.
How much money is Billy Joel worth today?
As of 2025, Billy Joel’s net worth is estimated to be approximately $250 million, much of it earned through record sales, touring, and his Madison Square Garden residency.
What is the nationality of Billy Joel?
Billy Joel is American. He was born in the Bronx, New York City, and raised in Hicksville, Long Island.
Latham & Watkins LLP is advising Life Time Group Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: LTH) on a $590 million secondary offering of 20 million shares by existing stockholders. The transaction is expected to close today, June 6, 2025, pending customary closing conditions.
Life Time won’t receive any proceeds from the sale, as it isn’t issuing new shares. Instead, the transaction allows current investors to reduce their holdings, with all proceeds going directly to those selling stockholders.
J.P. Morgan and BofA Securities are acting as joint underwriters and are offering the shares to the public at a set price.
Leading the legal team at Latham is partner Jason Licht, who works across both the Washington, D.C. and New York offices.
He is joined by counsel Christopher Cronin and Jessica Lennon, also based in Washington, D.C., and associates Brooke Padgett and Wyatt Wisnosky, who provided additional support throughout the transaction.
Corporate matters were handled by New York partner John Giouroukakis, while tax issues were addressed by Chicago partners Rene de Vera and Joseph Kronsnoble, with associate Jay Khurana assisting.
Morgan Lewis Advises Kyrgyzstan on $700M Sovereign Bond Offering
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The Kyrgyz Republic has completed its inaugural sovereign bond issuance, raising $700 million and marking its entry into the global capital markets.
Morgan Lewis acted as English and U.S. legal counsel to the government in connection with the transaction.
This transaction represents a significant milestone for Kyrgyzstan, the last Central Asian nation to access the Eurobond market.
It follows the establishment of a $1.7 billion global medium-term note (GMTN) program and the issuance of $700 million in 7.75% notes due 2030, the inaugural series under the program.
The notes are listed on both the London Stock Exchange and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and were offered pursuant to Rule 144A and Regulation S.
Former Prime Minister Akylbek Japarov emphasized the historical significance of the bond issuance, noting that Kyrgyzstan had long been the only Central Asian country without access to the Eurobond market.
Mr. Japarov attributed the successful launch to years of coordinated government efforts, improved macroeconomic indicators, and increased investor confidence, describing the issuance as a major step forward for the country’s financial development.
The funds raised will go toward budget support and strategic infrastructure, with a clear emphasis on the country’s energy future.
Mr. Japarov has urged the government to channel the money into major power projects, including a coal-fired thermal power plant in Naryn and a new power station in the Chui region.
He also called for investment in the development of rare earth metals, especially in Chui and Issyk-Kul, regions believed to hold untapped mineral reserves that could be key to Kyrgyzstan’s long-term economic diversification.
The GMTN program was officially set up on May 22, 2025, and the bond issuance closed shortly after, on June 3. The move is expected to open doors for further foreign investment and more frequent access to international markets.
Behind the scenes, Morgan Lewis played a crucial role in bringing the deal to life.
The firm’s advisory team was led by partner Carter Brod, alongside Yaroslav Smorodin and Hazem Nakib, who provided legal guidance on structuring the deal and navigating the complexities of cross-border regulation.
Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP is a global law firm founded in 1873, with offices across the U.S., Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The firm offers a wide range of legal services, including corporate, litigation, labor and employment, intellectual property, and regulatory law. Known for its strategic counsel and practical solutions, Morgan Lewis serves diverse clients, including multinational corporations, financial institutions, and governments. The firm is committed to innovation, collaboration, and delivering exceptional service to meet clients’ evolving needs.
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A one-night stay turned into a nightmare and now, a jury has sent a strong message to hotel owners about ignoring health and safety hazards.
What was supposed to be a quiet evening in Ventura, California, quickly became a horror story for Alvaro Gutierrez and Ramiro Sanchez.
The two men checked into The Shores Inn, a modest motel near the Ventura coastline, only to wake up covered in painful, swollen bites.
They’d been attacked by bed bugs while they slept and this wasn’t an isolated case.
After years of warnings posted online by other guests, this latest episode was the one that finally went to court and resulted in one of the largest bed bug-related payouts ever recorded.
A Ventura County jury recently ordered the hotel to pay a total of $2 million in damages, including $1 million in punitive awards for what the jury saw as reckless disregard for guest safety.
Gutierrez and Sanchez stayed at the inn on February 7, 2020. By morning, they were in visible distress, with their bodies covered in bites.
The two later sought medical treatment and eventually filed a lawsuit, accusing the hotel of turning a blind eye to what they said was a long-running infestation problem.
Their attorney, Brian Virag, who has handled similar cases across California, argued that the hotel had been warned again and again.
Online reviews dating back several years described similar conditions, yet no action had been taken. During the trial, the jury heard testimony about the men's pain, physical scarring, and the emotional toll that followed.
“This wasn’t just one bad night,” Virag told reporters after the verdict. “These men were disfigured and traumatized. The hotel could’ve prevented it and chose not to.”
The jury awarded $400,000 to Gutierrez and $600,000 to Sanchez for what they endured, everything from physical pain to emotional suffering and embarrassment. On top of that, they each received $500,000 in punitive damages.
After the verdict, the hotel’s legal team signaled they may challenge the outcome. A juror’s notebook reportedly contained a comment referring to the hotel as an “eyesore” that “should be torn down.”
There were also concerns that a couple of jurors may have passed by the property during the trial, raising the possibility of outside influence or bias.
Wendy Lascher, an experienced appellate attorney, has been brought on by the hotel to review potential next steps. No formal appeal has been filed yet, but it’s clear the case isn’t fully closed.
Hotels are expected to provide guests with more than just a place to sleep, they’re expected to offer a safe, clean environment. This ruling makes clear that ignoring health hazards like bed bugs can lead to serious legal consequences, especially if there’s evidence the property knew about the problem.
Lawyers who handle premises liability and personal injury claims are already pointing to this case as a prime example of how digital footprints, like guest reviews, can build a record of “constructive notice.”
In other words, if the problem was publicly known and documented, it becomes harder for property owners to claim ignorance.
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Simpson Thacher Advises Blackstone on $1.2B Warehouse REIT Deal
Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP is advising affiliates of Blackstone on their recommended bid to buy Warehouse REIT plc, a UK-based property company specializing in industrial real estate.
The offer values the company’s share capital at around £470 million on a fully diluted basis.
The deal is set to move forward through a court-approved scheme of arrangement, pending shareholder approval and other customary conditions.
Warehouse REIT, which has been operating since 2017, focuses on multi-let warehouse spaces in key commercial hubs across the UK. These properties make up the bulk of its portfolio. Headquartered in London, the company is traded on the London Stock Exchange’s Main Market.
The Simpson Thacher team advising on the transaction includes:
Corporate: James Campisi, Ben Spiers, Niccolo Calvi, Fran Towers, Julia Conzen
Real Estate: Wheatly MacNamara, Tom Lloyd, Adam Brunk, Claire Newman, Manfredi Sclopis, David Walsh
Antitrust: Étienne Renaudeau, Sandeep Mahandru
Regulatory: Stephanie Biggs, Seji Choi
Warehouse REIT plc is a London-listed real estate investment trust focused on multi-let industrial warehouses across key UK locations. Since launching in 2017, it has built a high-occupancy portfolio serving logistics, e-commerce, and regional businesses. Headquartered in London, the company blends active asset management with strategic acquisitions to drive income and value growth.
Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP is one of the world’s leading law firms, providing cutting-edge legal advice to a diverse range of clients including corporations, financial institutions, private equity firms, investment funds, and governments. With a global team spanning offices in key financial centers such as New York, London, Hong Kong, and Tokyo, the firm is known for its deep expertise in mergers and acquisitions, banking, capital markets, private funds, real estate, litigation, and regulatory matters. For over 135 years, Simpson Thacher has built a reputation for handling complex, high-profile transactions and delivering innovative solutions that help clients navigate today’s most challenging legal and business issues.
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Jimmy Buffett’s widow, Jane Buffett, has initiated legal proceedings against Richard Mozenter, co-trustee of the late musician’s $275 million estate.
In Jane Buffett's lawsuit, she accuses Mozenter of mismanaging trust assets, withholding key financial information, and excluding her from critical decisions regarding the estate’s administration.
What began as an internal dispute between co-trustees has now escalated into formal litigation, with Jane alleging a serious breakdown in communication, transparency, and fiduciary trust.
In a court petition filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, Jane says Mozenter has repeatedly failed to provide financial transparency.
According to her legal team, it took more than a year for him to inform her she’d be receiving around $2 million annually from the trust, despite the estate having already paid out over $14 million in distributions. Jane Buffett claims these financial decisions were made without her full understanding, consent, or proper disclosure.
More than just numbers, Jane describes Mozenter’s behavior as cold and uncooperative. She accuses him of ignoring her questions, delaying communication, and acting more like an adversary than a partner.
Jimmy Buffett wasn’t just a musician. He was a branding genius who turned his lifestyle into a business empire. His estate includes a significant stake in the Margaritaville franchise, which spans restaurants, hotels, and resorts across the world.
He also owned private aircraft, valuable real estate, original artwork, and a powerful catalog of music rights.
Jane believes this complex web of assets needs professional, transparent oversight, something she says Mozenter has failed to deliver.
To fix what she sees as a dysfunctional partnership, Jane is asking the court to remove Mozenter from his role and appoint Daniel Neidich, a seasoned real estate investor and CEO of Dune Real Estate Partners. She argues that Neidich has the experience, temperament, and financial acumen to handle the estate with care and fairness.
Richard Mozenter’s filed a countersuit in Florida, claiming that Jane is the one interfering with the trust’s proper function. In his version of events, she’s disrupted decision-making, delayed processes, and caused financial harm. Now he’s asking a Florida court to remove her from her co-trustee role.
What began as a quiet estate administration is now a two-state legal battle, with the potential to drag on for months, if not years.
A hearing in Los Angeles is scheduled for August 14, where a judge will consider whether Mozenter should be removed. Meanwhile, the Florida countersuit adds another layer of complexity, raising questions about jurisdiction and trustee authority.
Jimmy Buffett wasn’t just a musician, he was an entrepreneur who transformed a single song into a global lifestyle empire. From frozen margaritas to hotel check-ins, the Margaritaville brand has become a household name, spanning restaurants, resorts, cruises, retirement communities, and consumer products.
Although Buffett sold his Cheeseburger in Paradise chain to Luby’s Inc. back in 2012, he held onto a 20% ownership stake in Margaritaville Holdings, a stake that now sits at the heart of a growing legal battle.
The rap icon’s team says Meta used his music without permission hundreds of times. Now they want justice.
His music publishing company, Eight Mile Style, has filed a major lawsuit against Meta, the parent company behind Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp.
The core of the complaint? They say Meta used 243 of Eminem’s songs without getting the green light or paying up.
That includes some of his most iconic tracks, allegedly made available through features like “Reels Remix” and “Original Audio,” where users can add music to their posts.
According to the filing, Meta didn’t have the right licenses and kept using the music even after being told to stop.
This isn’t a misunderstanding over one or two songs. The lawsuit points to hundreds of tracks being uploaded, stored, and shared across Meta’s platforms without proper authorization.
Eight Mile Style claims Meta ignored the rules and let users remix, reuse, and share Eminem’s music freely, helping boost engagement and ad revenue in the process. They say Meta didn’t just drop the ball, they never even tried to play by the rules.
To make matters worse, the lawsuit says Meta kept copies of the songs on its servers even after being warned. That, according to the publisher, isn’t just sloppy. It’s deliberate.
Eight Mile Style isn’t just seeking an apology. The publishing company is demanding $150,000 for each infringed song, which brings the total to roughly $109 million in damages.
In addition to financial compensation, the lawsuit also calls for a court order to block Meta from using any more of Eminem’s music without proper authorization.
Meta hasn’t stayed quiet. They’ve pushed back, saying they’ve signed deals with various music rights groups and have been trying to work things out with third parties like Audiam. But Eminem’s team says those talks didn’t go through them and that Meta was trying to cut corners instead of making things right.
So far, both sides are holding their ground, and this legal fight is shaping up to be a big one.
This case could ripple across the entire music and tech industry. Artists, record labels, and publishing companies have been frustrated for years over how their work gets used and often monetized, without fair compensation on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.
If Eminem’s team wins, it might force companies like Meta to get more serious about how they license music and handle copyrighted content. And for creators?
It could mean fewer free rein remixes and more rules.
This isn’t Slim Shady’s first courtroom clash. In fact, he’s been pretty consistent about defending his work from day one.
Back in the early 2000s, Eminem took on Apple over an iPod ad that used “Lose Yourself” without his approval. Around the same time, his mother sued him for defamation after he rapped about their rocky relationship. There was even a lawsuit from a former classmate who claimed he was slandered in the song "Brain Damage."
Clifford Chance has advised Affin Bank Berhad on its debut in the US dollar bond market, a US$300 million offering under a broader US$2 billion Euro Medium Term Note (EMTN) programme. The 5.112% notes, maturing in 2030, are listed on the Singapore Exchange (SGX).
The issuance marks a strategic step for Affin Bank in diversifying its funding sources and strengthening its presence in global capital markets. It is the second US dollar bond issuance by a Malaysian bank this year, following AmBank’s debut, also advised by Clifford Chance.
Clifford Chance partner Gareth Deiner, who led the deal, noted a rising interest among Southeast Asian financial institutions in international capital markets.
“Affin Bank's successful debut in the US dollar bond market reflects a growing trend among Malaysian financial institutions seeking to capitalise on international funding opportunities. Given current market conditions, we anticipate an increasing number of issuers from this region, whether financial institutions or corporates, as they look to diversify funding sources and tap into the robust demand for ASEAN credit."
Mr. Deiner was joined on the matter by Claire Neo (Counsel) and Chak Ching Lau (Associate), forming a tight-knit team experienced in cross-border finance.
Affin Bank views the issuance as a strategic move aligned with its long-term objectives, with strong investor demand reflecting market confidence in its direction.
Datuk Wan Razly Abdullah, President and Group CEO of Affin Group, said the strong interest from international investors reinforces confidence in the bank’s foundation and future.
“AFFIN’s debut in the USD bond market marks a significant progression in our capital
markets strategy, drawing strong global investor demand. The overwhelming response underscores investor confidence in our fundamentals and validates the credibility we have established."
"Guided by the AFFIN Axelerate 2028 (AX28) Plan, the Group remains committed to unlocking long-term value through Unrivalled Customer Service, Digital Leadership, and Responsible Banking With Impact.”
Affin Bank Berhad is a leading Malaysian financial services group established in 1975 and headquartered in Kuala Lumpur. Through its core subsidiaries—Affin Islamic Bank, Affin Hwang Investment Bank, and Affin Moneybrokers—the Group provides a wide range of services across community, enterprise, corporate, and investment banking, as well as treasury solutions. With 134 branches nationwide as of early 2025, Affin Bank is guided by its customer-first philosophy, “Always About You,” and remains focused on digital innovation, responsible banking, and long-term value creation.
Clifford Chance is a global law firm with over a century of history and a presence in 23 countries through 34 offices. A member of the prestigious Magic Circle, the firm is recognized for its deep expertise in banking, corporate law, finance, dispute resolution, and tax. It advises a broad spectrum of clients, including multinational corporations, financial institutions, governments, and not-for-profits by combining international best practices with local market insight. Known for its collaborative culture and forward-thinking approach, Clifford Chance delivers innovative, high-quality legal solutions across every major industry and sector.
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Linklaters has advised CK Hutchison Holdings and its telecom subsidiary, CK Hutchison Group Telecom Holdings (CKHGT), on the completed merger of Three UK with Vodafone UK, forming the UK’s largest mobile network.
The deal officially closed on 31 May 2025, and the new combined business , now called VodafoneThree, will reshape the UK’s mobile landscape. Vodafone holds a 51% stake in the new company, while CKHGT owns the remaining 49%.
Vodafone will include VodafoneThree in its financial reporting moving forward.
Max Taylor, who previously led Vodafone UK, takes the reins as CEO of VodafoneThree. Darren Purkis from Three UK steps in as Chief Financial Officer.
VodafoneThree is kicking things off with a big promise: £11 billion in investment over the next 10 years to roll out one of Europe’s most advanced 5G standalone networks. The goal? Faster, more reliable service for users across the UK, and a serious upgrade for the country’s digital infrastructure.
The first year alone includes £1.3 billion in capital spending to accelerate deployment. Over time, the merged company expects to save £700 million a year in operating and capital costs, and to start contributing positively to Vodafone’s cash flow by fiscal year 2029.
Margherita Della Valle, Vodafone’s Group Chief Executive, called the merger a major leap forward:
“The merger will create a new force in UK mobile, transform the country’s digital infrastructure and propel the UK to the forefront of European connectivity."
"We are now eager to kick-off our network build and rapidly bring customers greater coverage and superior network quality. The transaction completes the reshaping of Vodafone in Europe, and following this period of transition we are now well-positioned for growth ahead.”
Canning Fok, Deputy Chairman of CK Hutchison and Executive Chairman of CKHGT, added:
“As we have demonstrated in other European markets, scale enables the significant investment needed to deliver the world-beating mobile networks our customers expect, and the Vodafone and Three merger provides that scale. In addition, this transaction unlocks significant shareholder value, returning approximately £1.3 billion in net cash to the Group.”
The Linklaters team advising CK Hutchison brought together a deep bench of legal expertise across multiple practice areas. Corporate advice was led by Partners Robert Cleaver and Hugo Stolkin, supported by Managing Associates Thomas Greenhalgh and Connor Chalmers, and Associates Sara Blum Specht, Robert Stutter, and Christian Mok.
On the technology and telecoms front, the TMT team included Partners Georgina Kon and Rich Jones, with Managing Associates Tatum Govender and Danny Greenland, along with Nicholas Puschman. Intellectual property matters were handled by Partner Paul Joseph, Managing Associate Stephanie Farrington, and Associate Olivia Williams.
Tax advice was led by Partner Chris Smale and Dominic Markham, while pensions were overseen by Partner Alasdair Smith. The employment aspects of the transaction were managed by Counsel Emma Gray and Managing Associate Anjali Raval. Incentives work was led by Partner Bradley Richardson, and banking matters were handled by Counsel Jo Jimenez.
CK Hutchison Holdings Limited is a Hong Kong-based multinational conglomerate with operations in over 50 countries and a workforce exceeding 300,000 employees. Formed in 2015 through the merger of Cheung Kong Holdings and Hutchison Whampoa, the company operates across four core sectors: ports and related services, retail, infrastructure, and telecommunications. Its telecommunications division includes the "3" brand, serving markets across Europe and Asia. CK Hutchison is publicly traded on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol 0001.HK
Linklaters is a global law firm recognized for its deep expertise in banking, capital markets, mergers and acquisitions, and dispute resolution. Operating in over 21 countries, the firm advises multinational corporations, financial institutions, and governments across the world’s major financial hubs. With nearly 200 years of experience, Linklaters has built a reputation for navigating clients through complex commercial, economic, and regulatory change. The firm is also known for its leadership in innovation, diversity, and sustainability, continuing to shape the future of the legal industry.
White & Case Advises Scalable Capital on €155M Funding Round
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White & Case LLP has advised investment firms Noteus Partners and Sofina on their lead role in a €155 million funding round for Scalable Capital, one of Europe’s fastest-growing digital investment platforms.
The latest funding round attracted significant participation from both new and existing investors, reflecting continued confidence in Scalable Capital’s mission to expand access to retail investing across Europe.
Scalable Capital provides a comprehensive investment platform that enables individual investors to manage portfolios through the trading of stocks, ETFs, and mutual funds.
In addition to offering interest-bearing cash accounts and secured lending options, the firm’s digital wealth management arm, Scalable Wealth, delivers professionally managed ETF portfolios and serves as a white-label solution for leading institutional partners.
“Noteus Partners and Sofina perfectly complement our global investor base. The recent funding round is a clear endorsement, and an important step on our path to becoming the leading retail investment platform in Europe.” said Erik Podzuweit, Founder and Co-CEO of Scalable Capital.
Zoé Fabian-Frey, General Partner at Noteus, echoed that sentiment: “Noteus is proud to support Scalable Capital as it continues to democratise retail investing in Germany and across Europe."
"With its vertically integrated investment offering and highly engaged customer base, the company is well positioned for long-term success. We look forward to partnering with the team as they continue to scale and shape the future of investing,”
Maxence Tombeur, Managing Director at Sofina, added: “Scalable Capital is transforming how individuals approach investing across Europe. Their innovative platform, comprehensive offering and clear vision for financial inclusion resonate strongly with Sofina’s strategy of backing impactful high-growth companies. We are enthusiastic about supporting their journey to further redefine the retail investment landscape in Germany and beyond.”
The White & Case team advising on the transaction was based in Frankfurt and led by partners Andreas Lischka and Gernot Wagner. They were joined by fellow partners Woldemar Haering, Sebastian Stuetze, and Rebecca Emory. The wider team included associates Agmal Bahrami, Jan Ditrich, Konstantin Huber, Franziska Seeger, Julian Burhenne, and Justus Redeker.
Scalable Capital is a leading European fintech founded in 2014 with offices in Munich, Berlin, and London. Its platform combines Scalable Broker, for trading stocks, ETFs, and crypto, with Scalable Wealth, a digital wealth management service offering managed ETF portfolios. Backed by investors like BlackRock and Tencent, the company aims to make investing simple, affordable, and accessible to all through smart technology and intuitive design.
Noteus Partners is an independent growth equity investment firm specializing in European technology companies. Founded in 2023 by a team with over 70 years of collective experience, Noteus has invested more than €2.6 billion across 27 companies. With offices in Paris, London, and Berlin, the firm focuses on fast-growing, category-defining tech businesses led by ambitious management teams. Noteus combines deep sector expertise with a hands-on approach to support companies scaling across Europe's fragmented markets.
Sofina is a Belgian investment firm listed on Euronext Brussels with over 125 years of history. It provides long-term capital to entrepreneurs and growth-stage companies, focusing on five key sectors: consumer, digital, education, healthcare, and sustainability. With offices in Brussels, London, Luxembourg, and Singapore, Sofina invests globally across Europe, Asia, and the U.S.
White & Case LLP is a global law firm known for providing high-quality legal services to clients across a broad range of industries. Founded in 1901, the firm has grown to become one of the largest international law firms, with offices in over 40 locations worldwide. White & Case specializes in complex legal matters, including banking and finance, mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, dispute resolution, and regulatory compliance. The firm represents multinational corporations, governments, and financial institutions, offering expertise in cross-border transactions, international litigation, and arbitration. White & Case is renowned for its deep industry knowledge, innovative solutions, and commitment to delivering results for its clients.
