Olivia Marsh Resolves Plagiarism Controversy Over “Backseat” with Isaac Dunbar
Singer-songwriter Olivia Marsh, known as the older sister of NJZ ( formerly NewJeans) member Danielle, has addressed plagiarism allegations surrounding her song “Backseat”, one of the double title tracks from her debut album “Meanwhile”. The controversy arose after American singer Isaac Dunbar claimed that “Backseat” bore strong similarities to his 2019 track “Onion Boy”.
Official Statement and Resolution
On February 24, 2025, Marsh’s agency MPLIFY released a statement acknowledging the validity of Dunbar’s claims after comparing the two songs. The agency announced:
“We have reached an amicable settlement with Isaac Dunbar. Necessary measures are being taken to ensure the original creator’s rights are protected, including credit registration and negotiating composition shares.”
Dunbar’s name has since been added to the songwriting credits for “Backseat”, replacing two previously credited composers. MPLIFY emphasized that this action reflects their commitment to creativity and fair artistic practices.
Agency’s Apology and Future Measures
MPLIFY also issued a formal apology to Isaac Dunbar and fans, stating:
“We sincerely apologize for this incident and to those who were disappointed by it. We will take this as a lesson to review our internal systems thoroughly and ensure such issues do not happen again.”
The agency further promised to enhance transparency in their creative processes moving forward.
Background on the Controversy
The plagiarism allegations surfaced shortly after Olivia Marsh released her debut album “Meanwhile” on February 13, 2025. Dunbar took to social media to express frustration, claiming his work had been copied. Fans quickly noticed similarities between the instrumentals and melodies of “Onion Boy” and “Backseat”.
Marsh’s agency promptly responded by initiating discussions with Dunbar, leading to a swift resolution. Despite the controversy, Marsh remains committed to her music career and continues to gain recognition as a rising artist in the global music scene.
Full Statement from MPLIFY (Translated) about ‘Backseat’ and ‘Onion Boy’:
Hello, this is MPLIFY.
We would like to address the plagiarism controversy regarding Olivia Marsh’s song “Backseat”, one of the double title tracks from her debut album “Meanwhile”.
After comparing the two songs directly, we concluded that Isaac Dunbar’s claims have merit. As a result, we have reached an amicable settlement with Isaac Dunbar and are taking all necessary steps to protect creators’ rights. These include negotiating composition shares and registering credits for the original creator. This reflects our shared commitment to creativity and fair artistic practices.
We sincerely apologize to Isaac Dunbar and fans who were disappointed by this situation. We will take this as a lesson to review our internal systems thoroughly and ensure such incidents do not happen again in the future.
Thank you for your understanding and continued support for Olivia Marsh.
Previous article about Olivia Marsh and NJZ Danielle, Full Statement of parents of NJZ, Bang Sihyuk tried to cancel 5 NJZ members’ schedule?
