When Justin Bieber announced his new album 'Justice' and revealed its artwork earlier this month, more than a few people noted the resemblance between it and the logo of another famous Justice.
French DJ/production duo Justice's logo contains a T in the shape of a crucifix - similar to Bieber's album artwork. At first, their label Ed Banger Records laughed off the resemblance, but now it seems like they're taking it further and have issued a cease-and-desist order to the Canadian pop star.
The band's manager Tyler Goldberg told Rolling Stone: "The morning Bieber announced his album, it was pretty tough to miss. Aside from seeing it all over the internet ourselves, we heard from hundreds of people throughout the day — industry people, Justice fans — and the Justice guys received a ton of messages, not only compelled to point out the similarities between the Justice Justin Bieber album, but confused. ‘Is this a Justice collaboration?’"
The band argue that their logo - which has been trademarked in Europe - is being infringed upon. The letter states: "Your use of the Mark is illegal. You have not received permission from Justice to utilize the Mark.
"Moreover, Bieber’s work is in no way affiliated with, supported by, or sponsored by Justice. Such use of the Mark is not only illegal, but likely to deceive and confuse consumers."
It continues: "Not only was Bieber’s team actually aware of Justice’s use of the Mark, they sought to use the same artist to essentially duplicate it for the Album. This is textbook bad faith and willful infringement.
"Through your illegal co-opting of the Mark, you are now subject to immediate legal action and damages including, but not limited to, punitive and injustice relief.”
Bieber, of course, could argue that the crucifix shape is to signify his Christian faith.
What do you think - do they have a point?
