The family of Bob Marley have failed in their attempt to obtain copyright to some of the reggae singer's biggest hits.

Marley's family had accused Universal Music Group (UMG) of intentionally withholding royalties from their own music company.

They also alleged that they had not been consulted over certain licensing decisions.

But a New York judge ruled on Monday (September 13) that UMG lawfully owned the copyright, reports BBC News.

The songs in question, which included 'I Shot the Sheriff' and 'No Woman, No Cry', all featured on the late singer's five albums recorded between 1973 and 1977 for Island Records.

Marley died of cancer in the US in 1981. He was 36.

(by Jason Gregory)