The estate of the late guitarist Jimi Hendrix is set to sue a Las Vegas business over alleged copyright infringement.
Jimi Hendrix remains one of the most influential musicians in the history of rock and roll. Hendrix redefined the role of the guitar in modern music, taking the use of feedback and electronic effects to new levels.
Sadly, Hendrix was only to release three studio albums in his lifetime. The guitarist died in 1970, and since then his estate has been hotly contested.
The late musician’s family owns the Experience Hendrix, L.L.C. and Authentic Hendrix LLC. The estate have filed a federal lawsuit against the Las Vegas-based HendrixLicensing.com and its owner, Andrew Pitsicalis.
Experience Hendrix president Janie Hendrix says, “Protection of my brother’s legacy and his unique gift is our family’s highest priority. We’ve long used an iconic headshot and signature on products that we and our legitimate licensee partners market.”
Pitsicalis is accused of using the Hendrix trademark without permission. Experience Hendrix was founded in 1995 by the guitarist’s father Al Hendrix, and has been responsible for the musician’s estate since then.
Janie adds, “My father’s vision in establishing our family companies was to vigorously protect and preserve the legacy of Jimi Hendrix. Our action in this case is consistent with that vision and we are confident that we will prevail as we have in our previous trademark litigation.”
The case is ongoing.
