Lady Gaga Scores Key Victory in ‘Mayhem’ Surf Brand’s Trademark Lawsuit Against Her
A judge ruled in favor of Lady Gaga, denying a surf company's request to block her from using 'Mayhem' on album and tour merchandise.Summary
Lady Gaga has secured a significant legal victory against Lost Surfboards, a company that claimed her album and tour merchandise infringed on their “Mayhem” trademark. Judge Fernando M. Olguin rejected Lost Surfboards’ request for an injunction to halt Gaga’s use of the term, stating that her use of “Mayhem” was artistically relevant and did not mislead consumers. The judge’s decision suggests the case is unlikely to proceed to trial.
Lost Surfboards has been selling surf equipment with the “Mayhem” branding since the 1980s and argued that Gaga’s album artwork and merchandise created consumer confusion. However, Judge Olguin found that the Lanham Act, which protects trademarks, did not apply in this instance. Lady Gaga’s attorney, Orin Snyder, hailed the decision as a “total victory” and a reaffirmation of artistic expression.
Despite the setback, Lost Surfboards intends to continue pursuing the case and remains open to a settlement that protects both their trademark and artistic freedom. Gaga’s attorneys will now file a motion to dismiss the claims. Her album, *Mayhem*, debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and her ongoing Mayhem Ball tour has already grossed over $100 million.
(Source：Billboard)