Rappers Drake and 21 Savage – whose real name is Shéyaa Bin Abraham-Joseph – (“the Rappers”), have been sued by global mass media company and publisher of Vogue magazine, Condé Nast, for the unauthorised use of both its brand name and trade marks.
The Rappers photoshopped themselves on a fake “VOGUE” magazine cover and plastered copies over several US cities to promote their new album “Her Loss”. In a further publicity stunt, Drake took to Instagram to thank Vogue and the publication’s editor-in-chief Anna Wintour for “the love and support on the historic moment”, claiming the fake covers would appear on newsstands.
Condé Nast and Wintour stated they have not endorsed the album and requested the Rappers to take down the fake covers multiple times, but this was not actioned. Condé Nast is seeking at least $4million in damages for the stunt.
A US federal judge has ordered the Rappers to cease using the fake Vogue cover to promote their new album. The case is due back in court on 22 November.
The lawyer representing the Rappers is yet to comment on the matter.
If you have any questions on the above, please do not hesitate to contact the team at McDaniels Law on 0191 281 4000 or legal@mcdanielslaw.com .
in: Case Law, Companies, EU/International, Legal News, News, Passing Off, Trade Marks
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