But rap visionary and activist Nipsey Hussle left an indelible mark on his world through his remarkable music and activism. Globally celebrated for his tough entrepreneurial drive and dedication he channeled into uplifting South L.A., his neighborhood, this rapper Nipsey really inspired hundreds with his hopeful thoughts of struggle and empowerment throughout his short life. Cruelly, his life is cut in March 2019 when he was fatally gunned down outside his Marathon store. His legacy has suffered a number of different blows since his death; one was the lawsuit hanging on his trademark slogan “The Marathon Continues.”
In September 2019, Crips LLC, through Tia Hollis, filed to trademark “The Marathon Continues.” Hollis said the move was to protect Nipsey Hussle’s name from being exploited and to stop people from making money off his estate without permission. According to Hollis, the filing was for the use of the slogan on things like educational materials in regards to community organization and gang prevention.
However, that decision was not well received, since many-most of all, the family and fans of Nipsey-received it with skepticism and concern. The tension set the stage for a contentious legal battle over rightful ownership and control of the phrase.
In October 2020, the estate of Nipsey Hussle, controlled by his brother Samiel Asghedom, better known as Blacc Sam, filed a lawsuit against Crips LLC. The lawsuit accused Crips LLC of trademark infringement, false advertising, and unfair competition. Blacc Sam and the estate contended that the slogan was deeply tied to Nipsey’s personal brand and vision, and they wanted to make sure it remained in the family.
The estate also demanded that all products bearing the slogan be destroyed and asked for damages against Crips LLC. The lawsuit focused on intellectual property rights and became a flashpoint in the bigger debate over the ethical concerns of managing the legacy of a dead artist.
The case received wide media attention and public sympathy for Nipsey’s family. His fans, and the entire public sympathized with his estate to cement the fact that he retained his vision, as supported by his family, to the latter days of his life.
On the other side, Crips LLC’s actions brought ethical debates as to what motive lay behind their filing a trademark. Some critics question whether such a move is meant to honor Nipsey or commercialize his legacy in ways he would have not approved of. It points to the greater complexity involved in managing intellectual property bound up with public figures that are no longer alive.
The case was later settled in March 2021. From then on, the estate of Nipsey Hussle and Crips LLC reached a settlement to continue working together in memory of Nipsey. The settlement agreement had Crips LLC apologize to Nipsey’s family for continuing to hurt them with their actions and were committed to making it right. This lawsuit has been dismissed with both sides promising to work together in the protection and celebration of Nipsey’s contributions.
