OutKast, the legendary Hip Hop duo, is taking legal action against the electronic dance music duo ATLiens for trademark infringement. Big Boi and André 3000 have filed a lawsuit in a Georgia federal court, asserting that the EDM group’s use of the name “ATLiens” violates their trademark rights.
According to documents obtained by Billboard, OutKast claims, “The word ATLiens was invented by OutKast. Before OutKast created it, it was not used in the cultural lexicon and did not exist.”
The duo believes that the EDM group’s use of the name could lead to confusion among fans, potentially causing them to believe the groups are related or connected in some way.
OutKast first introduced the term “ATLiens” to the world with their 1996 album, which quickly became a cultural milestone. In contrast, the EDM duo began using the name in 2012, long after it had been firmly associated with the Hip Hop icons.
The lawsuit also highlights that the EDM duo performs in masks, further adding to the potential confusion, as fans might mistakenly associate them with OutKast.
The lawsuit reveals that OutKast attempted to resolve the matter peacefully, but the EDM duo allegedly ignored their efforts to reach an amicable agreement.
Now, the case is heading to court, where the outcome could have significant implications for both parties.
Fans of both OutKast and the EDM duo will undoubtedly be watching closely as the case unfolds.