The loss of legendary photographer Chi Modu is still making waves in the music world. The estate made it known they would still be keeping the legacy of the photographer alive but also would be protecting it as well. Now, it appears the estate has filed a lawsuit against Universal Music Group over the usage of a 2 Pac photo taken by Chi Modu.
The label allegedly used a photo from Chi Modu for a page on their website titled “Best Tupac Songs: 26 Essential Tracks.” The estate says they sent a cease and desist to the label, but the “Defendants failed to meaningfully respond.”
A lawyer for Chi Modu’s estate said, “While it does not surprise me that it would appeal to Universal, we are disappointed that the company did not reach out to the Estate to procure a license before exploiting Mr. Modu’s work on its commercial website. We look forward to addressing this infringement in court.” Chi Modu’s estate is looking to get the photo removed and is also seeking damages. According to Billboard, the statutory damages for copyright infringement could amount to $150,000 per violation.
source: Billboard
