Billboard has learned the estate of late legendary hip-hop photographer Chi Modu filed a lawsuit Friday against Universal Music Group over its use of a photo of Tupac Shakur in a blog post.
The suit accuses UMG of copyright infringement for using Modu’s photo of 2Pac and crediting Universal Music Archives in a Best Tupac Songs: 26 Essential Tracks post on a site owned and operated by the company.
His estate, which is overseen by its trustee Sophia Modu, alleges Universal Music Group removed his copyright information before publishing and profited off the use of the image.
“Chi Modu’s photography captured moments of profundity and grace,” Scott Burroughs, attorney for the estate, said in a statement.
“While it does not surprise me that it would appeal to Universal, we are disappointed that the company did not reach out to the Estate to procure a license before exploiting Mr. Modu’s work on its commercial website.
“We look forward to addressing this infringement in court.”
The complaint claims a cease-and-desist was sent to UMG and the site on Feb. 9, 2022 with the threat of a lawsuit, but the “defendants failed to meaningfully respond.”
The estate is seeking a jury trial and award of all profits and fees, as well as damages, which, as Billboard notes, could reach up to $150,000 per violation.
Latest Stories
-
Jorvago serves new single ‘Waakye Seller’
49 mins -
Rex Omar’s GHAMRO leadership: Pass or fail?
1 hour -
Anlo Dukor celebrates grand durbar of Anlo Hogbetsotso Za
2 hours -
Election 2024: Akufo-Addo pledges to respect Ghanaian will
2 hours -
EPL: Antoine Semenyo stars as Bournemouth defeat Manchester City
3 hours -
Watch CCTV footage of dramatic Adabraka daylight robbery
3 hours -
EPL: Liverpool come fron behind to beat Brighton
3 hours -
EPL: Jordan Ayew late goal salvages draw for Leicester against Ipswich
3 hours -
ESCO VOLTA holds meeting to strengthen cross-border cooperation in security, development
3 hours -
Kufuor Scholar champions Agricultural Innovation through Fidelity GreenTech Challenge
3 hours -
EPL: Isak scores at home again as Newcastle beat Arsenal
3 hours -
I’m proud that despite all the challenges, we have maintained Free SHS – Akufo Addo
7 hours -
Alan’s running mate, KOD says GRASP will revolutionize care for the Elderly in rural areas
7 hours -
Election 2024: Alan paints Accra yellow as the crowd marches through the capital with him
7 hours -
Vacant seats: Speaker has not done what would have led to greater peace – Kofi Bentil
7 hours