NEW YORK, June 1 (UPI) -- A federal jury in New York Thursday rejected a New Jersey rap group's claim that Kanye West and Ludacris stole their song for "Stand Up."
The jury rejected the copyright violation claim filed against the rap superstars after deliberating for less than a day, E! Online reported.
The rap group, I.O.F. -- It's Only Family -- and its production company, BMS Entertainment/Heat Music LLC, claimed in the suit that the 2003 smash hit, "Stand Up," contained lyrics and beats identical to I.O.F.'s 2001 song, "Straight Like That."
The lawsuit noted both songs used the phrase "like that" more than 80 times.
Following the verdict, Ludacris told reporters he hoped "the plaintiffs enjoyed their 15 minutes of fame."
"This whole experience is proof to me of why I will always fight for what I believe in," he said. "The only thoughts and ideas I borrow from are those of my own."
West was not in court for the verdict.
