by Traverse Legal, reviewed by Enrico Schaefer - June 24, 2014 - Copyright Infringement: Original Works & Stolen Web Content
American music group, “The Beastie Boys” have sued Monster Energy Drink for copyright infringement. Founding member Adam Horovitz appeared in a New York court on Tuesday as the case filed nearly two years ago got underway. The Beastie Boys say that Monster Energy used their songs and image to promote their product without permission. In 2012, band member Adam Yauch died and it was reported his Will banded the use of The Beastie Boys music in advertisements. The group is seeking $150,000 in damages for each infringement.
This case was settled in early June of 2014 with The Beastie Boys being awarded by a jury verdict the amount of $1.7 million for this copyright lawsuit. The band’s original Complaint filed in 2012 after the death of Adam Yauch had sought for damages in the amount of $2.5 million for copyright infringement and false endorsement. The group stated in their Complaint that "The public was confused into believing that plaintiffs sponsored, endorsed and are associated with defendant Monster in promoting defendant Monster's productions and promotional events." Even though Monster Energy Company blamed it on an employee’s mistake for believing that the Company had permission to use their music in a promotional video, the jury agreed with the group that the use of their music was an infringement on their protected copyrights.
Monster has gone on record to say that they disagree with the jury’s verdict and will be filing an appeal.
As a founding partner of Traverse Legal, PLC, he has more than thirty years of experience as an attorney for both established companies and emerging start-ups. His extensive experience includes navigating technology law matters and complex litigation throughout the United States.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by attorney Enrico Schaefer, who has more than 20 years of legal experience as a practicing Business, IP, and Technology Law litigation attorney.
