Missy Elliott’s lawyer breaks silence on songwriting lawsuit settlement

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Hip-Hop icon Missy Elliott has officially settled her protracted legal battle with music producer Terry Williams—just moments before jury selection began in a Philadelphia federal courtroom on August 22, 2025.

Williams, who initially sued Elliott in 2018, claimed he had co-written four songs on Sista’s 1994 album ‘4 All the Sistas Around da World’ but was omitted from the songwriting credits. He also attempted to claim credit on Aaliyah’s 1996 single ‘Heartbroken’, but US District Judge Nitza I Quiñones Alejandro dismissed that allegation in August 2024, ruling it was barred by the statute of limitations.

Despite denials from both sides and anticipation of a courtroom showdown, Elliott’s attorney, Mike Trauben, confirmed that “no money was paid in connection with any of Terry Williams’ claims”, though a “small sum” was paid to acquire beats Williams created that Elliott ultimately used in her songs. Additionally, Elliott’s personal writings and music in Williams’ possession were returned to her upon settlement.

The lawsuit, which spanned nearly seven years, also named producer Timbaland and major record labels—Elektra, Atlantic, Warner Music Group, and Reservoir Media—but many of those claims were dismissed or stayed during the litigation.

By resolving the dispute just before the trial, Missy Elliott avoids a juried reckoning over her early career contributions and preserves her legacy as one of Hip-Hop’s most influential creatives.