Pharrell Williams is reportedly counter-suing Will.i.am.
The music producer recently launched a YouTube channel called I Am Other, and Will.i.am is trying to stop him from using the name.
The Black Eyed Peas front man previously sent him a cease and desist letter explaining that he owns the rights to the “I Am” phrase.
Now Pharrell is claiming that the trademark is completely different to what Will.i.am goes by.
The lawsuit, filed in a New York federal court Pharrell argues that Will has the wrong end of the stick.
He states Will is using “I Am” as a play on his own name.
The paperwork makes reference to Dr. Suess’ children’s book Green Eggs and Ham where the text reads, “Sam I am, I am Sam, I am Sam, Sam I am”.
“In contrast, the I Am Other mark means ‘I am something else,’ leaving what that ‘else’ is to the imagination of the consumer,’ the documents explain. ‘It certainly does not mean ‘I am Will.'”
Pharrell is reportedly asking a judge for written permission to continue using the “I Am Other” label.
Will.i.am’s real name is William Adams and he uses the term ‘I Am’ in various businesses including entertainment, consumer electronic products and philanthropy.
Pharrell’s I Am Other venture includes musicians, a branded YouTube channel, a Brooklyn-based bicycle manufacturer and a company that makes yarns and fabrics from recycled plastic bottles.
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