Source: Julia Beverly / Getty / OutKast
An EDM duo called ATLiens is legally feeling the wrath of OutKast for very obvious reasons.
Billboard reports that OutKast sued ATLiens, claiming their name is a blatant infringement on the iconic rap duo’s 1996 album of the same name.
Two lawyers representing Big Boi and André 3000 argued on August 20 that the EDM duo’s use of the name ATLiens, a term used by Atlanta residents, has caused confusion.
“The word ATLiens was invented by OutKast,” the lawsuit states, per Billboard. “Before OutKast created it, it was not used in the cultural lexicon and did not exist. Defendant’s use of the ATLiens mark is likely to cause confusion, to cause mistake or to deceive the public.”
The website notes that the EDM duo ATLiens began using their name in 2012. According to the lawsuit, Big Boi and Andre 3000 only became aware of this recently.
Lawyers for the rap group also claim that both groups are in “related musical genres” and that fans could mistake them for Big Boi and André 3000 because of the costumes they wear on stage.
“The duo comprising defendant performs with masks on, thereby concealing their identities such that consumers will mistakenly believe that the members of Defendant are one and the same with — or at least somehow connected to — plaintiff,” OutKast’s lawyers said.
ATLiens Are Leaving The Iconic Rap Duo & Their Lawyers On Read
The “Ms. Jackson” crafters also claim that they tried to “negotiate an amicable resolution to the dispute,” but the EDM group continues to use the name and allegedly made a poster similar to the one Outkast used.
“Management for OutKast has already received communications from third parties querying whether OutKast was affiliated with the defendant’s upcoming show,” OutKast’s lawyers said.
ATLiens has not responded to the lawsuit, but it would be in their best interest to do so.
