Trademark Trouble: The Neptunes’ Pharrell Williams and Chad Hugo Battle Over Duo’s Name

Pharrell Williams and Chad Hugo, the world-renowned production duo behind The Neptunes, are locked in a legal battle over the rights to their group's name. Williams has filed trademark applications for "The Neptunes" encompassing music recordings, streaming entertainment, and merchandise. Hugo's legal team contests these filings, arguing that Williams has no right to claim sole ownership of the trademark without Hugo's involvement and consent.

A representative for Williams counters that he has reached out to Hugo multiple times to discuss sharing ownership and administration of the trademark but hasn't received a response. The representative further emphasizes that Williams' actions are solely intended to protect the name from being acquired by a third party.

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O.J. Simpson, Former Football Great and Controversial Figure, Dies at 76

O.J. Simpson, one of the greatest running backs in history and a controversial public figure, passes at the age of 76 after battling prostate cancer. Born July 9, 1947, in San Francisco, California, Simpson rose to fame as a running back at the University of Southern California (USC), winning the Heisman Trophy in 1968. He played professionally for 11 seasons, primarily with the Buffalo Bills, becoming one of the greatest running backs in history and breaking numerous records. After his football career, Simpson found success as an actor and sports commentator.

In 1994, Simpson was accused of murdering his ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend, Ronald Goldman. His televised criminal trial dubbed the "Trial of the Century," captivated the nation, sparking intense debates about race and police conduct. Simpson was acquitted of the murders in 1995, but a subsequent civil trial found him liable for their deaths. In 2008, he was convicted of armed robbery and kidnapping in Las Vegas and served nine years in prison before being released on parole in 2017. Simpson remains a controversial figure, with many believing he was guilty of the murders despite his criminal acquittal.

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Websites To Check Out
National Bail Out

The National Bail Out is a Black-led and Black-centered collective of abolitionist organizers, lawyers, and activists building a community-based movement to support our folks in abolishing pretrial detention systems and dismantling the prison industrial complex. We are people who have been impacted by cages — either by being in them ourselves or witnessing our families and loved ones be encaged. We are queer, trans, young, elder, and immigrant.

Until Freedom

Until Freedom founders and leaders have a proven track record of two decades of collective work in criminal justice reform, gun violence prevention, immigrant rights, and cultural engagement.

Kingdom Royale

Kingdom Royale is a revolutionary luxury home for foster boys. We will change the trajectory of the lives of young men who have been unfortunately thrust into the foster care system. This is where foster kids become royalty.

Stampedd

At Stampedd, we believe that an open world is filled with boundless possibilities, yet it requires pathways to embark on extraordinary adventures. Guided by our passion for exploration, we are dedicated to creating seamless and personalized experiences that lead you to new horizons.

Faries Collection

An online boutique featuring African-style-inspired fashion accessories and home décor. The inspiration for these exotic, vibrant, bold, and trendy pieces comes from the love of African style and culture.

Black Opry

Black Opry is home to Black artists, fans, and industry professionals working in country, Americana, blues, and folk music. Country and roots music has been made and loved by Black people since their conception. For just as long, we have been overlooked and disregarded in the genre. Black Opry is changing that.