A federal judge has ruled that a copyright infringement lawsuit brought by veteran gospel singer, songwriter, and producer Percy Bady against Tribl Records LLC may continue, marking the latest development in a closely watched dispute involving one of gospel music's most recognizable songs.
Bady, best known as the writer of the 1987 gospel classic "I'm Free," originally filed suit against Tribl Records and worship artist Todd Galberth, alleging that Galberth's song "Fill the Room" incorporates portions of "I'm Free" without authorization.
According to court filings, Bady claims that Tribl Records released, distributed, and promoted "Fill the Room," including a music video that has accumulated more than one million views on YouTube. The amended complaint alleges copyright infringement and vicarious copyright infringement under federal copyright law.
While Tribl Records sought to limit certain remedies available to Bady, the court recently ruled that the songwriter may continue pursuing claims for statutory damages and attorney's fees should he ultimately prevail in the case. The decision preserves Bady's ability to seek monetary compensation under provisions of the Copyright Act.
The judge did, however, agree with Tribl's request to dismiss Bady's claim for punitive damages. Such damages are generally reserved for conduct deemed especially malicious, reckless, or egregious.
The ruling does not determine whether copyright infringement occurred. Instead, it allows the case to proceed while preserving several key remedies sought by the plaintiff.
As part of the next phase of litigation, both parties have been ordered to submit a Joint Preliminary Report and Discovery Plan by June 15, 2026, outlining how the case will move forward through the discovery process.
Following the court's decision, Bady expressed gratitude to attorney James Walker and his legal team for their continued support throughout the legal proceedings.
The case has attracted attention throughout the gospel music community due to the prominence of the parties involved. Bady has long been recognized as a respected songwriter and producer whose compositions have been recorded by numerous gospel artists over several decades.
Tribl Records, co-founded and overseen by Norman Gyamfi, has emerged as one of the most influential labels in contemporary worship music, representing a growing roster of worship leaders, songwriters, and recording artists.
With discovery set to begin, the lawsuit now moves into a new stage as both sides prepare to present evidence regarding the origins and composition of the disputed works.
