FKA Twigs Wins Trademark Battle

FKA Twigs has won the first round in a trademark lawsuit against indie band The Twigs, with a judge ruling that the band forfeited its right to sue due to years of inaction. The lawsuit, which began in 2014, centered on FKA Twigs' stage name, which The Twigs claimed was an infringement on their own trademark.

The Twigs, comprising twin sisters Laura and Linda Good, initially filed a trademark claim against FKA Twigs in 2014 but voluntarily dismissed the case shortly after. However, in 2024, they sent cease-and-desist letters to FKA Twigs, prompting her to take legal action. FKA Twigs, whose real name is Tahliah Barnett, asked a judge to stop The Twigs' cease-and-desist letters so she could trademark her stage name.

The Twigs countersued FKA Twigs, claiming she had used her fame to weaken their trademark and seeking a financial settlement. However, U.S. District Judge Jed S. Rakoff dismissed The Twigs' claims against FKA Twigs, citing the doctrine of laches. The ruling stated that The Twigs had been aware of FKA Twigs' allegedly infringing activity since at least 2013, but did not take action until 2024.

Judge Rakoff found that The Twigs' claims were too old and that FKA Twigs had not intended to promote confusion between herself and The Twigs. The case is not yet over, as FKA Twigs still has pending claims against The Twigs.

## Why it matters The ruling has significant implications for the music industry, where trademark disputes are common. The case highlights the importance of taking timely action in trademark disputes, as well as the need for clear intent to promote confusion. FKA Twigs' victory is also a testament to her efforts to protect her brand and stage name.

The outcome of the case will likely have a lasting impact on the music industry, as it sets a precedent for future trademark disputes. As the case is not yet over, it remains to be seen how FKA Twigs' pending claims against The Twigs will be resolved. However, for now, FKA Twigs has emerged victorious in the first round of the trademark battle.