Beatles 'First Known' Recording Lawsuit Against Universal Music Heads to Trial After Judge's Ruling

An eight-year legal dispute over a long-lost Beatles demo tape is finally heading to trial, following a judge's ruling. The case centers on a recording claimed to be the band's first known demo, held by a former Abbey Road sound engineer. The engineer's estate has been locked in a legal battle with Universal Music Group over ownership and rights to the tape. The lawsuit, which began eight years ago, questions who holds the rights to the historic audio. The ruling means a court will now decide the fate of the recording, which could have significant implications for music copyright and the legacy of one of the world's most iconic bands. The outcome may set a precedent for similar disputes over early recordings by legendary artists.