Will.i.am Files Copyright Complaint Against Pharrell’s New Brand, ‘i am OTHER’

Will.i.am has recently filed a formal complaint of copyright violation against Pharell  Williams for the release of his new brand “i am OTHER.” “i am OTHER” is marketed as a YouTube channel and cultural movement that promotes individuality and conservation and charity initiatives.

Will.i.am claims that he owns the copyright to the phrase “I AM” and that the new logo for “i am OTHER” is too easily confused with his own. He argues that Pharell will be using his “i am OTHER” brand on clothing and other merchandise in too similar of a manner to the goods bearing his “I AM” logo. Fearing the registration of the “i am OTHER” will lessen the value of the Will.I.AM mark, he plans to take the matter all the way to court.

In a statement to Rolling Stone Pharell responded by saying “I am disappointed that Will, a fellow artist, would file a case against me. I am someone who likes to talk things out and, in fact, I attempted to do just that on many occasions. I am surprised in how this is being handled and I am confident that Will’s trademark claims will ultimately be found to be as meritless and ridiculous as I do.”

Representatives for Will.i. am have not responded to these comments at this time.