Outkast, the legendary hip-hop duo from Atlanta, is taking legal action against an EDM duo also from Atlanta over the use of the name ‘ATLiens’. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia, claims that the EDM duo is infringing on Outkast’s trademark rights.

The Origin of ‘ATLiens’

‘ATLiens’ is a term that was popularized by Outkast in their 1996 album ‘ATLiens’, which featured hits like ‘Elevators’ and ‘Jazzy Belle’. The album was a commercial success, selling over 1.5 million copies in the United States alone. The term ‘ATLiens’ has since become synonymous with Atlanta’s hip-hop scene and Outkast’s unique sound.

The EDM Duo’s Use of ‘ATLiens’

The EDM duo, comprised of producers Chris Yung and Cameron Aspery, started using the name ‘ATLiens’ in 2015. They claim that they were inspired by Outkast’s music and wanted to pay homage to the legendary duo. However, Outkast argues that the EDM duo’s use of the name ‘ATLiens’ is likely to confuse consumers and dilute the value of their trademark.

The Lawsuit

Outkast’s lawsuit alleges that the EDM duo’s use of the name ‘ATLiens’ constitutes trademark infringement and unfair competition. The lawsuit also claims that the EDM duo has used the name ‘ATLiens’ to sell merchandise and promote their music, which further exacerbates the confusion among consumers.

What’s at Stake

If the court rules in favor of Outkast, the EDM duo may be forced to change their name and stop selling any merchandise bearing the ‘ATLiens’ name. Additionally, the EDM duo could be required to pay damages to Outkast for any profits made from the use of the name ‘ATLiens’.

Conclusion

The lawsuit between Outkast and the EDM duo highlights the importance of trademark protection and the potential consequences of using a name that is already associated with another brand. As the case moves forward, fans of both Outkast and the EDM duo will be closely following the developments. In the meantime, let us know your thoughts on this legal battle in the comments below!

Do you think the EDM duo should be allowed to keep the name ‘ATLiens’? Should Outkast have more control over the use of the term? Share your opinions and let’s discuss!