Rapper Jay-Z Sues Spot Of Tea

Rapper Jay-Z is suing Spot of Tea in Downtown Mobile. It's part of a larger suit by Universal Music Group against small businesses around the country.

According to a federal lawsuit obtained by News 5, Jay-Z and five other plaintiffs are suing the restaurant for illegally playing their music.

The suit says that owner Tony Moore doesn't have the right to play their songs in his restaurant or the nightclub around back called Club Insanity.

The Jay-Z song in question was reportedly played in August. It's called "Umbrella" and is performed by Rihanna and Jay-Z

Moore says he is licensed and doesn't appreciate how his restaurant is being portrayed. "I've been in business for 15 years and I've gained an impeccable reputation. I pay my bills. I'm not a rogue business person that's trying to come in under the radar and perform a business operation without a permit. Tiffany Craig asked, "Is it possible that you did play a couple of songs you weren't licensed to play?" Moore responded, "I don't know if that's possible or not because they program it."

Moore is considering a counter lawsuit for defamation of character. The lawsuit is asking for $30,000 in damages.