Sonic Adventure 2’s ‘Live and Learn’ Lawsuit Dismissed: Johnny Gioeli Addresses Song Ownership Dispute

Published on: September 23, 2025

In a recent development in the ongoing legal dispute surrounding the iconic Sonic Adventure 2 track "Live and Learn," the lawsuit filed by Crush 40 musician and vocalist Johnny Gioeli against SEGA has officially been dismissed.

This concludes over two decades of uncertainty since the song’s original release in 2001 on SEGA’s Sonic Adventure 2, a game that has since become a mainstay among Sonic fans on platforms including Dreamcast, Nintendo GameCube, and more recently, through digital storefronts like the Nintendo eShop. Background: Sonic Adventure 2, developed by Sonic Team and published by SEGA, features a soundtrack widely celebrated within the gaming community.

"Live and Learn," composed by June Senoue and performed by Johnny Gioeli, stands out as a hallmark of the franchise’s musical legacy.

In December 2023, Gioeli filed a lawsuit claiming he had not received proper compensation for his contributions to the track across its 23-year commercial lifespan. Court Dismisses Lawsuit Against SEGA According to newly released court documents, the legal action has been dismissed in its entirety, ruling in SEGA's favor.

The dismissal results from timing issues rather than any clear ownership resolution.

In a statement to the public, Gioeli clarified the nature of the court’s decision: "The reason for the dismissal was based on time, not on ownership.

The song remains in a state of limbo regarding its rights." Gioeli further added that despite the court’s verdict, "Live and Learn" remains central to his identity as an artist.

He indicated that he wrote and sang the song, collaborating with composer June Senoue, and recorded his vocals in his own studio.

Gioeli also revealed that SEGA recently directed companies seeking to license the track, such as Epic Games, to reach out to him directly.

He described the situation as the song remaining "in the abyss of ownership." Enduring Legacy and Industry Relevance Despite the legal outcome not resulting in a transfer of rights or compensation, Gioeli expressed gratitude toward fans, stating, “Thanks to everyone for your endless support and love.

Life isn't always fair...

but we all move forward in love and music.” "Live and Learn" continues to hold special significance within the Sonic community, having appeared in numerous Sonic games, remixes, and live performances over the years.

The ongoing copyright ambiguity has not diminished the track’s presence in gaming culture or hindered its demand for possible re-use, as evidenced by recent licensing inquiries involving major companies like Epic Games. As of now, any potential changes to the song’s rights remain unresolved, and SEGA retains commercial control as established by the court’s dismissal.

Fans and industry observers can expect further updates should the status of "Live and Learn" evolve, especially with the track’s continued relevance across gaming platforms like Nintendo Switch and upcoming anniversary events.