Beyoncé, 34, has filed a federal lawsuit against Andre Maurice, Leana Lopez, Lee Lee and Feyoncé Inc, a Texas-based company.
The singer explains that one of her most popular hits is the song Single Ladies, which she released in 2008. The song was certified quadruple-platinum with more than 5 million downloads and is one of the best selling singles of all time.
Beyoncé believes she will 'suffer irreparable harm' to her business reputation and the goodwill associated with her brand because she has no control over defendants products
She says the song is a symbol of female empowerment and has been likened to Aretha Franklin's 'Respect' and Gloria Gaynor's 'I Will Survivor.'
Beyoncé accuses the defendants of seeking to capitalize on the notoriety of her hit song with famous lines by selling merchandise including clothing and coffee mugs with lines such as, 'put a ring on it' and even are selling clothes bearing the Feyoncé mark.
The singer points out the defendants even launched a website to sell their products under the name Feyoncé.
She explains she sells her own merchandise – since she owns the copyrights to her songs and likeness - and hawks everything from cell phone cases, hats, clothing and mugs. She says few artists have acquired the fame she has and widespread unsolicited media attention she receives on the daily .. as a result her merchandise generates millions of dollars in sales.
The infamously private singer says she has invested considerably in creating, maintain and promoting the goodwill associated with her name and trademarks.
Beyoncé is furious that the company is infringing on her trademark and confusing consumers into thinking she endorses their products and says the company is ruining her brand.
She filed suit demanding an injunction against the defendants from continuing to sell the merchandise infringing on her trademarks and an order awarding her all profits the company made from the illegal products being sold along with other damages for profiting off her name without any permission.
Daily Mail
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