Outkast Sues Rapper Ovrkast for Trademark Infringement Over ‘Nearly Identical’ Name
The lawsuit from André 3000 and Big Boi claims a California rapper "maliciously" chose a similar name — and that he publicly admitted fans confuse it for "Outkast."
Hip-hop duo Outkast is suing rapper and producer Ovrkast for trademark infringement, claiming that Ovrkast's name is nearly identical to theirs and he reneged on a secret settlement to change it. In a lawsuit filed in Atlanta federal court, Outkast's attorneys accuse Ovrkast, whose real name is Silas Wilson, of knowingly and maliciously attempting to link himself to Outkast.
The complaint states that Ovrkast has used the "Ovrkast" mark, causing damage and further damage to Outkast's trademark. Outkast had previously sent a cease-and-desist letter to Wilson over a year ago, asking him to change the name, but he allegedly refused to make the switch. In response to the lawsuit, Ovrkast posted on Instagram, asking "I thought it was love?" and tagging both Outkast members in the caption.
Outkast has a history of protecting its trademarks, having sued an EDM duo named ATLiens in 2023 on similar grounds.
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Also reported by 1 other outlet
- Outkast Sue Ovrkast for Having “Nearly Identical” Name pitchfork.com
