The lawsuit that could significantly impact the past and future of reggaeton music will proceed to trial as a judge denied the majority of motions to dismiss the legal action involving the oft-sampled 1989 track “Fish Market.”

The massive case, which consolidates more than 50 related lawsuits filed over the last two years, alleges Jamaican producers Steely & Clevie’s 1989 hit “Fish Market” originated the distinctive dembow rhythm — named after Shabba Ranks’ 1990 single “Dem Bow,” which used the “Fish Market” riddim” — that’s become a signature of reggaeton music.

Lawyers for the duo...