Pharrell Williams is no longer speaking to his Neptunes collaborator Chad Hugo. Friends since high school, in March, Hugo filed a trademark opposition at a federal tribunal, which has caused a divide between the musical duo.
In a recent interview with the Hollywood Reporter, Williams said “I always wish him the absolute best,” but when asked if they are on speaking terms, he added “No. But I love him, and I always wish him the absolute best, and I’m very grateful for our time together.”
The rift began between the two band mates began when Chad’s legal team claimed Pharrell had “knowingly and intentionally” filed trademark applications for his band N.E.R.D., his Miami hotel Goodtime Hotel, and more without consulting Chad, despite being “fully aware” that his partner should have been listed as a co-owner.
In a formal statement, Hugo’s attorney wrote:
“Throughout their over 30 year history, [Hugo] and Williams agreed to, and in fact, have divided all assets.” “By ignoring and excluding [Hugo] from the any and all applications filed by applicant for the mark ‘The Neptunes,’ applicant has committed fraud in securing the trademarks and acted in bad faith.”
Elsewhere in the interview, Pharrell said he rejected approaches to sell the rights to his back catalogue, insisting there is “no number” that would persuade him to do so, adding:
“Selling is not for me. There’s no number to sell your rights. Not for me. But to each his own. For some people, I guess, it makes sense. When they’re done, they’re done. But I love music and I love my work, and I love my ability to make music, so selling is not a thing.”
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Author: Saul Goode
Photo: Various (cropped and combined together by Shoot for the Stars)