Outkast Sue Ovrkast for Having “Nearly Identical” Name

Grammy-winning rap group Outkast, consisting of André 3000 and Big Boi, has initiated legal proceedings against Ovrkast, a rapper and producer born Silas Wilson, for alleged trademark infringement, unfair competition, and breach of contract. The lawsuit was filed in Georgia on September 16, 2023, by High Schoolers LLC, the holding company responsible for Outkast's name and trademark.

The plaintiffs claim that Ovrkast used a name that was "nearly identical" to Outkast's, which could cause confusion or mislead the public into believing a connection between the two entities.

Ovrkast responded to the news by posting on Instagram, expressing confusion and sarcasm about the case. The duo's representatives have been contacted by Pitchfork for further comment. According to the complaint, André and Big Boi's attorneys argue that Ovrkast breached a prior agreement to cease using the name Ovrkast and adopt an agreed-upon alternative, Overkxst.

The complaint further asserts that the original name was intended to "cause confusion...or deceive the public into the false belief" that it was related to Outkast.

The suit cites a 2025 Rolling Stone interview with Ovrkast, in which he acknowledged receiving accusations of copying Outkast's name. He stated, "The worst thing I get is like, 'The n—-a think he Outkast.' It's like, 'No, bro. I wasn't even thinking about Outkast.' Mad n—-as do that shit. They read Ovrkast [as] Outkast." In 2024, Outkast had previously sued EDM duo ATLiens for a similarly named entity, a case which was subsequently settled.