Big Freedia Sues Choreographer Over Dance Routines, Song Copyrights & Videos

Wilberto Dejarnetti, Big Freedia

Big Freedia Sues Choreographer Over Dance Routines, Song Copyrights & Videos

Big Freedia (real name Freddie Ross Jr.) is taking legal action against her former choreographer, Wilberto Dejarnetti. The popular New Orleans artist and reality star is reportedly seeking a declaration of ownership for choreography and music from the time they worked together.

Wilberto was also a cast member on Freedia’s reality show, “Queen of Bounce”. The lawsuit, which was filed last week, explains that Wilberto worked with her dance team from 2014 to 2017 on routines for the songs “Just Be Free Intro,” NO Bounce,” “Explode,” “Shake Session Medley,” “Dangerous,” “Best Beeleevah” and “Drop.”

Wilberto Dejarnetti

According to the suit, Freedia ended their work relationship because his behavior was frequently erratic, and his temperamental nature caused turmoil and strife” within Freedia’s team. Wilberto has sought continued royalties of $500 per month for dance routines that Freedia’s lawyers say were

“largely based on and derivative of traditional ‘bounce’ dance movements and other routines Mr. Ross and his dancers had been employing for years.”

The lawsuit also says Wilberto has already been paid for his services. The lawsuit said Wilberto has also claimed to have co-written some songs. Freedia’s lawyers state that the choreographer may have been present during the recording, but had no “copyrightable” role in the music.

In addition to an ownership declaration, the lawsuit seeks unspecified monetary damages.

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