Source: https://www.scribd.com/document/92619411/03092012-Homme-v-Kyuss-Lives
Timestamp: 2017-08-23 15:16:28
Document Index: 212111766

Matched Legal Cases: ['§ 1125', '§ 17500', '§ 1051', '§ 17200', '§ 1121', '§ 1331', '§ 1367', '§ 1391', '§ 1114', '§ 1114', '§ 1125', '§ 1125', '§ 1125', '§ 1125', '§ 1125', '§ 17200', '§ 17200', '§ 17500', '§ 17500', '§ 17', '§ 17500', '§ 17535', '§ 1331', '§ 17200', '§ 1121', '§ 1367', '§ 1051', '§ 1391', '§ 1114', '§ 1114', '§ 1125', '§ 1125', '§ 1125', '§ 1125', '§ 1125', '§ 1125', '§ 17200', '§ 17200', '§ 17500', '§ 1753', '§ 17500', '§ 17500', '§ 17535']

03092012 Homme v Kyuss Lives | Damages | Injunction
Uploaded by Emanuele Pantano
VICTOR K. SAPPHIRE (SBN 218634)
Email: vsaQ_phire@cblh.com
CONNOLI:Y BOV'E LODGE & HUTZ LLP
Telephone: (213) 787-2500
Facstmile: (213) 687-0498
Atto_f!!_e_ys for Plaintiff
CENTRAL DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA I
JOSHUA HOMME, a United States C V Q
.-- )J
l f7/l3.
KYUSS a California
corQoration; K ruSS LIVES
RECORDING LLC, a California limited
liability JOHN GARCIA, an
individual; BRANT BJORK, an
individual; and DOES 1-10, inclusive,
INJUNCTIVE RELIEF AND
INFRINGEMENT- 15 U.S.C.
2. DESIGNATION OF
ORIGIN AND/OR UNFAIR
COMPETITION- 15 U.S.C.
§ 1125(a) AND COMMON
3. MISREPRESENTATION AND
PASSING OFF - 15 U.S.C.
INFRINGEMENT-AT
COMMON LAW·
5. UNFAIR COMPETITION-
§§ 17500 ET SEQ.
COMPLAINT AND DEMAND FOR INJUNCTIVE RELIEF AND DAMAGES
1 Plaintiff Joshua Homme ("Plaintiff" or "HOMME") complains and alleges as
1. Plaintiff is a United States individual, with his principal place of
residence located at c/o Myman Greenspan Fineman Fox Rosenberg & Light LLP,
11601 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 2200, Los Angeles, California 90025.
2. Plaintiff is informed and believes, and thereupon alleges, that defendant
Kyuss Lives, Inc. ("KLI") is a California corporation authorized to do business and
currently doing business in the State of California, with its principal place of
business located at 12121 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 1201, Los Angeles, California
3. Plaintiff is informed and believes, and thereupon alleges, that defendant
Kyuss Lives Recording, LLC ("KLR") is a California limited liability company
authorized to do business and currently doing business in the State of California,
with a principal place of business located at 12121 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 1201,
Los Angeles, California 90025. KLI and KLR are hereafter collectively referred to
as "KL
4. Plaintiff is informed and believes, and thereupon alleges, that defendant
John Garcia ("GARCIA") is an individual, whose address is 49940 Aspen Drive,
Morongo Valley, California 92250.
5. Plaintiff is informed and believes, and thereupon alleges, that defendant
Brant Bjork (
BJORK") is an individual, whose address is 72631 Spyglass Lane,
Palm Desert, California 92260.
6. Plaintiff is unaware of the actions, names and/or true capacities of
Defendants, whether individual, corporate and/or partnership entities, named herein
as DOES 1 through 10, inclusive (the "DOE Defendants"), and therefore sues them
by their fictitious names. Plaintiff will seek leave to amend this complaint when
their actions and/or true names and capacities are ascertained. Plaintiff is informed
1 and believes, and thereupon alleges, that said Defendants and the DOE Defendants
2 are in some manner responsible for the wrongs alleged herein, and that at all times
3 referenced each was the agent and servant of the other Defendants and was acting
4 within the course and scope of said agency and service.
5 7. Plaintiff is informed and believes, and thereupon alleges, that at all
6 relevant times herein, each of the Defendants herein, including the DOE Defendants
7 (collectively, "Defendants"), directed, knew or reasonably should have known of the
8 acts and behavior alleged herein and the damages caused thereby, and by their
9 actions and/or inactions directed, ratified and encouraged such acts and behavior.
10 Plaintiff further alleges that Defendants had a non-delegable duty to prevent or cure
11 such acts and the behavior described herein, which duty Defendants failed and/or
12 refused to perform.
14 8. This is a civil action for trademark infringement, misrepresentation,
15 passing off, false designation of origin and unfair competition arising under the
16 United States Trademark Act of 1946, as amended, 15 U.S.C. §§ 1051, et seq. (the
1 7 "Lanham Act") and the common law; for unfair competition under California
18 Business and Professions Code§§ 17200 et seq. and common law and other related
19 rights under the statutory and common law of the State of California.
20 9. This Court has subject matter jurisdiction of this action pursuant to 15
21 U.S.C. § 1121 and 28 U.S.C. §§ 1331 and 1338 as it involves claims arising under
22 the Lanham Act and the Copyright Act. This Court has supplemental subject matter
23 jurisdiction over all other claims pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 1367 because they are so
24 related that they form part of the same case or controversy.
25 10. This Court has personal jurisdiction over the Defendants in that they
26 are doing business in the State of California and the Central District of California,
27 and they are committing the acts hereinafter alleged in this State and the Central
28 District of California.
1 11. Venue for this action is proper in the Central District of California
2 pursuant to 28 U.S.C. §§ 1391(b) and (c) and 1400(a) in that Plaintiff resides in this
3 District, Defendants are headquartered and operate in this District and the events
4 giving rise to the claim occurred in the Central District of California.
5 BACKGROUNDFACTS
6 12. In July 1992, HOMME, GARCIA and Scott Reeder (collectively
7 referred to herein as the "Original Partners") began recording and performing
8 together as a musical group under the name KYUSS (the "Name"). The group was
9 originally formed in the late 1980's and released an eponymous extended-play
10 ("EP") record under the name SONS OF KYUSS in 1990. HOMME and GARCIA
11 were founding members of the group and were the only continuous members
12 throughout the group's working life ending in 1995. A number of other individuals
13 performed with the group; however, HOMME, GARCIA and Reeder were the core
14 group members with decisionmaking power governing group business and creative
15 direction.
16 13. After shortening the group name to KYUSS, the group released a series
17 of albums which included "Wretch" and "Blues for the Red Sun", both released on
18 independent labels, followed by the eponymous "Kyuss" a/k/a "Welcome to Sky
19 Valley", and " ... And the Circus Leaves Town." Shortly after the release of the latter
20 album, in or around October, 1995, the group disbanded and ceased performing
21 under the Name. Each of the respective Original Partners moved on to other
22 musical projects.
23 14. Original KYUSS recordings and merchandise remain currently
24 available on the open market, and generate revenue to the Original Partners.
25 15. As of January 1, 1994 the Original Partners entered into an agreement
26 (the "Agreement") that, among other things, set forth the manner in which the
27 Original Partners could exploit the Name. Specifically, Paragraph 14.4 of the
28 Agreement states that
(b) If at any time the Partnership consists of fewer than
two (2) original Partners, the Partnership may no longer
explmt the Group Name in any manner except with respect
to master recordmgs, compositions, merchandise, endorsed
products and other materials placed in commerce prior to
Thus, unless there were at least two (2) Original Partners present and participating
as group members, no one was authorized to use the Name on or in connection with
any performances, recordings, merchandise, endorsements, and other goods and/or
services. Each of the Original Partners, including GARCIA, signed the Agreement.
16. In November 2010, GARCIA announced a "reunion" under the
moniker KYUSS LIVES. At the time he was forming his new group using the
KYUSS name, GARCIA stated that "There is never going to be a KYUSS without
17. In 2010 and 2011, GARCIA's new musical group performed in North
America, Europe, Australia and New Zealand, and has extensive performance
bookings forthcoming in 20 12 under the KYUSS LIVES name.
18. GARCIA's KYUSS LIVES group has also commenced marketing an
extensive line of merchandise bearing the KYUSS and KYUSS LIVES marks in
direct competition with the KYUSS merchandise mentioned in Paragraph 13 above.
19. GARCIA is the only Original Partner in the KYUSS LIVES group.
20. On information and belief, KLI and KLR were formed at GARCIA's
and BJORK's direction in connection with their performing, recording,
merchandising and all other activities involving their use of the KYUSS and
KYUSS LIVES marks.
21. Without the authorization or consent of HOMME and/or Mr. Reeder,
KL has proceeded to file several United States federal trademark applications for the
marks KYUSS and KYUSS LIVES, including Appl. Ser. Nos. 85/418,474,
85/418,458, and 85/418,462 for KYUSS LIVES; and 85/418,433 and 85/418,454 for
1 KYUSS, all in connection with live performances by a musical group, musical
2 recordings, and apparel merchandise, in the name of KLI.
3 22. The Original Partners, with Alfredo Hemndez [sic], own U.S.
4 Registration No. 2,962,692 for KYUSS in connection with "clothing, namely t-
5 shirts, sweatshirts, hats and jackets", granted on June 21, 2005. The registration is
6 incontestable.
7 23. The Original Partners' KYUSS mark has been in use in connection
8 with the foregoing apparel merchandise since at least as early as 1991, and has been
9 in continuous use in connection with sound recordings since that time. The KYUSS
10 mark is thus associated with the 1990's-era incarnation of the group, which included
11 the Original Partners.
12 24. The Original Partners have expended great effort and large sums of
13 money in making and overseeing music, performances and merchandise bearing the
14 Name, which has become well-known to relevant audiences throughout the United
15 States and the world. In so doing, the Name has come to symbolize a certain level
16 of quality and consistency in connection with all products bearing, sold under,
17 and/or in conjunction with the KYUSS mark, which was agreed upon and
18 maintained by the consensus ofthe Original Partners. The KYUSS mark
19 symbolizes the goodwill created by the Original Partners' collective creative
20 endeavors in live and recorded music and associated ancillary merchandise.
21 25. As a result of the high quality of products sold under and/or in
22 conjunction with the Name, and as a result of the subsequent success of advertising,
23 sale and consumer acceptance of those products, consumers have come to view the
24 KYUSS mark as exclusively identifying products associated with the group
25 comprising the Original Partners, and particularly the performances and recordings
26 during the period in which HOMME was an active member.
27 26. HOMME's success in his subsequent musical endeavors, including his
28 current group "Queens of the Stone Age", has resulted in increased audience
1 curiosity and excitement for the KYUSS name and the group's back-catalog of
2 recordings, leading to continued interest in the group's recordings and merchandise.
3 27. The Original Partners have the sole and exclusive worldwide rights to
4 use and/or to control the use of the Name, and colorable imitations thereof, in
5 connection with music-related goods and services including live performances,
6 recordings and ancillary merchandise, in order to prevent the infringement,
7 disparagement, dilution and/or other misappropriation thereof.
8 28. The Name has not been assigned nor licensed to the Defendants for any
9 purpose.
10 DEFENDANTS' UNLAWFUL ACTIVITIES
11 29. HOMME is informed and believes, and thereupon alleges, that each of
12 the foregoing actions of the Defendants will falsely mislead and/or confuse
13 consumers about the source of origin, association, sponsorship, approval or other
14 business relationship between HOMME and the group as it was comprised of the
15 Original Partners on the one hand, and the K.L goods and services on the other.
16 30. Defendants' use of the Name, or colorable or confusingly similar
17 imitations thereof like KYUSS LIVES, is unfair, unlawful, and is likely to lead
18 consumers to mistakenly and/or falsely believe that Defendants' goods and services
19 are associated with, or made, sponsored, or approved by HOMME and/or the
20 Original Partners, which is not the case. Defendants will likely unfairly benefit
21 from HOMME's and the Original Partners' valuable goodwill and hard-earned
22 reputation for quality and consistency.
23 31. As a result, Defendants have acquired a cachet and salability for their
24 products which they would not otherwise have had. These consequences were
25 foreseeable at the time Defendants changed the name of their performing group
26 from "Garcia Plays Kyuss" to KYUSS LIVES.
27 32. HOMME is informed and believes, and thereupon alleges, that as a
28 proximate result of the advantage accruing to Defendants' business as a proximate
1 result of confusion, deception and/or mistake caused by Defendants' wrongful
2 conduct as alleged herein, Defendants have received illicit profits and wrongful
3 gains, and HOMME has suffered damages.
4 33. HOMME is further informed and believes, and thereupon alleges, that
5 Defendants' actions alleged above are willful, intentional, objectively unreasonable
6 and malicious. Given the nature and extent of the unauthorized use and attempted
7 registration of the KYUSS Trademarks, HOMME is further informed and believes,
8 and thereupon alleges that Defendants' actions and infringements are willful and
9 objectively unreasonable, such that HOMME is entitled to recover enhanced
10 damages and his attorneys' fees.
11 FIRST CAUSE OF ACTION
12 TRADEMARK INFRINGEMENT
13 (15 u.s.c. § 1114)
14 34. HOMME repeats and realleges the allegations in paragraphs 1 through
15 33 as though fully set forth herein.
16 3 5. The aforesaid acts of Defendants constitute infringement and/ or
17 contributory infringement of the Original Partners' registered trademark, in violation
18 of section 32(1) of the Trademark Act of 1946, as amended, 15 U.S.C. § 1114(1).
19 36. As a result of the foregoing infringement, HOMME has been injured,
20 and Defendants have received illicit profits and wrongful gains.
21 3 7. Defendants' conduct has caused, and if not enjoined, will continue to
22 cause additional harm to HOMME amounting to irreparable in a manner that cannot
23 be calculated or compensated in money damages. HOMME has no adequate
24 remedy at law for such harm.
2 FALSE DESIGNATION OF ORIGIN
3 (15 U.S.C. § 1125(a) and Common Law)
4 38. HOMME repeats and realleges the allegations in paragraphs 1 through
5 3 7 as though fully set forth herein.
6 39. With knowledge of HOMME's rights in the Name, Defendants continue
7 to make use of a colorable imitation of the Name, including without limitation
8 through the performance and recording of music, including without limitation music
9 composed by HOMME, as well as the sale, offering for sale, distribution and/or
10 dissemination of prerecorded music and ancillary merchandise products, in order to
11 capitalize on the good name, notoriety, reputation and goodwill of HOMME.
12 40. Defendants' acts as alleged above are unlawful by, inter alia, creating
13 and/or by permitting others to create a false designation of origin and/or to unfairly
14 compete in a manner which is likely to cause confusion, or cause mistake, or
15 deceive consumers as to the affiliation, connection, or association between
16 Defendants and HOMME, or as to the origin, sponsorship, or approval by HOMME
17 ofDefendants' goods, services and/or activities, in violation of the Lanham Act, 15
18 U.S.C. § 1125(a)(1)(A) and/or common law.
19 41. Defendants' acts as alleged above misrepresent the nature,
20 characteristics and/or qualities of Defendants' goods, services, activities or
21 information in violation ofthe Lanham Act, 15 U.S.C. § 1125(a)(l)(B) and/or
22 common law.
23 42. As a result of the foregoing, HOMME has been injured, and
24 Defendants have received illicit profits and wrongful gains.
25 43. Defendants' conduct has also caused, and if not enjoined, will continue
26 to cause, irreparable damage to the Name, as well as to HOMME's good name,
27 reputation and goodwill, in a manner that cannot be calculated or compensated in
28 money damages. HOMME has no adequate remedy at law.
2 MISREPRESENTATION AND PASSING OFF
4 44. HOMME repeats and realleges the allegations in paragraphs 1 through
5 43 as though fully set forth herein.
6 45. With knowledge of HOMME's rights in the Name, Defendants continue
12 46. Defendants' acts as alleged above are unlawful by, inter alia, passing
13 themselves off and/or permitting others to pass Defendants off as the group
14 comprising the Original Members, in a manner which is likely to cause confusion,
15 or cause mistake, or deceive consumers as to the affiliation, connection, or
16 association between Defendants and HOMME, or as to the origin, sponsorship, or
17 approval by HOMME ofDefendants' goods, services and/or activities, in violation
18 of the Lanham Act, 15 U.S.C. § 1125(a)(l)(A) and/or common law.
19 47. Defendants' acts as alleged above misrepresent the nature,
20 characteristics, qualities, or geographic origin ofDefendants' goods, services,
21 activities or information in violation of the Lanham Act, 15 U.S.C. § 1125(a)(1)(B)
22 and/or common law.
23 48. As a result of the foregoing, HOMME has been injured, and
25 49. Defendants' conduct has also caused, and if not enjoined, will continue
2 COMMON LAW TRADEMARK INFRINGEMENT
3 (Common Law)
4 50. HOMME repeats and realleges the allegations in paragraphs 1 through
5 49 as though fully set forth herein.
6 51. The aforesaid acts of Defendants constitute infringement and/or
7 contributory infringement under common law of the KYUSS Mark owned by the
8 Original Partners.
9 52. As a result of the foregoing infringement, HOMME has been injured,
1 0 and Defendants have received illicit profits and wrongful gains.
11 53. By reason of Defendants' acts as alleged herein, HOMME has also
12 suffered, is suffering, and will continue to suffer irreparable damage and, unless
13 Defendants are restrained from continuing their wrongful acts, the damage to
14 HOMME will increase. HOMME has no adequate remedy at law for such harm.
15 FIFTH CAUSE OF ACTION
16 STATUTORY UNFAIR COMPETITION
17 (California Business and Professions Code§§ 17200 et seq.)
18 54. HOMME repeats and realleges the allegations in paragraphs 1 through
19 53 as though fully set forth herein.
20 55. Defendants, by virtue of their acts as alleged above, have willfully,
21 knowingly and intentionally engaged in acts of unfair competition under California
22 Business and Professions Code§ 17200 et seq.
23 56. As a result of the foregoing, HOMME has been injured, and
25 57. Defendants' conduct has also caused, and if not enjoined, will continue
26 to cause irreparable damage to HOMME in a manner that cannot be calculated or
27 compensated in money damages. HOMME has no adequate remedy at law for such
28 harm.
2 COMMON LAW UNFAIR COMPETITION
4 58. HOMME repeats and realleges the allegations in paragraphs 1 through
5 57 as though fully set forth herein.
6 59. Defendants, by virtue of their acts as alleged above, have willfully,
7 knowingly, maliciously, and intentionally engaged in acts of unfair competition
8 under the common law of the State of California, including without limitation,
9 palming off, and/or attempting to palm off, and/or enabling others to palm off the
10 KL goods and services as products and performances made by, sponsored by, or
11 authorized by the Original Partners, including HOMME.
12 60. As a result of the foregoing, HOMME has been injured, and
13 Defendants have received illicit profits and wrongful gains.
14 61. Defendants' conduct has also caused, and if not enjoined, will continue
15 to cause irreparable damage to HOMME in a manner that cannot be calculated or
16 compensated in money damages. HOMME has no adequate remedy at law for such
17 harm.
18 62. Defendants' conduct has been willful, deliberate and malicious.
19 EIGHTH CAUSE OF ACTION
21 (California Business & Professions Code§§ 17500 et seq. and Common Law)
22 63. HOMME repeats and realleges the allegations in paragraphs 1 through
23 62 as though fully set forth herein.
24 64. In engaging in the aforesaid acts, Defendants have acted and are
25 continuing to act, directly or indirectly, with the intent to sell and/or induce the
26 public to purchase and/or disseminate and/or cause to be disseminated before the
27 public, by way of publications or other advertising devices, statements concerning
28 Defendants' goods and services which are untrue and/or misleading, and which
1 Defendants know, or upon exercise of reasonable care should know, are untrue
2 and/or misleading.
3 65. By the aforesaid acts, Defendants have engaged in and are engaging in
4 false advertising in violation of California Business and Business Code§ 17500
6 66. If Defendants are permitted to proceed with the aforesaid acts,
7 HOMME will continue to be irreparably injured by reason of Defendants' false
8 advertising. Defendants have proceeded and are proceeding with the aforesaid acts
9 deliberately and willfully. Unless enjoined by this Court, HOMME is informed and
10 believes, and thereon alleges, that there is a substantial possibility and threat of
11 ongoing false advertisement by Defendants for which HOMME is without adequate
13 67. In addition, HOMME is informed and believes, and thereon alleges,
14 that Defendants' acts have resulted and will continue to result in substantial profits
15 to Defendants to which they are not entitled. Disgorgement by Defendants of all
16 money and property, including profits, illegally obtained by Defendants by means of
17 such unfair business acts and practices should be ordered by this Court pursuant to
18 California Business and Professions Code § 17 53 5.
21 WHEREFORE, HOMME prays for judgment against Defendants as follows:
22 INJUNCTIVE RELIEF:
23 For preliminary and permanent injunctive relief that:
24 1. Defendants, their officers, agents, servants, employees, attorneys,
25 parents, subsidiaries and related companies and all persons acting for, with, by,
26 through or under them, and each of them, be temporarily restrained from, and
27 preliminarily and thereafter permanently enjoined and restrained from:
1 a. seeking to register and/or using in any manner the KYUSS mark,
2 or any word, words, packaging or trade dress likely to cause confusion therewith,
3 including without limitation the mark KYUSS LIVES, in connection with the live
4 performance and/or recording of music, the sale, manufacture, distribution,
5 advertising or promotion of their goods and services, including but not limited to
6 recordings and ancillary merchandise such as apparel goods, so long as such goods
7 and/or services do not emanate from, do not originate with, or are not licensed by
8 the Original Partners and/or HOMME; or,
9 b. using any false designation of origin or false description that can,
10 or is likely to, lead the public, or individual members thereof, to believe that any
11 goods and services created, performed, distributed, or sold by Defendants, including
12 but not limited to live performances, sound recordings and/or ancillary apparel and
13 other merchandise, is in any manner associated or connected with the Original
14 Partners and/or HOMME, or is sold, manufactured, licensed, sponsored, or
15 approved or authorized by the Original Partners and/or HOMME; or,
16 c. doing or causing to be done any further acts in violation of
17 California Business and Professions Code§ 17500 et seq.; or,
18 d. otherwise engaging in any other activity constituting an
19 infringement of the KYUSS name and mark, or any other trademark owned by or
20 associated with HOMME, and/or from unfairly competing with HOMME in any
22 2. Defendants file with the Court and serve upon HOMME's counsel
23 within thirty (30) days after entry of Judgment a report in writing under oath setting
24 forth in detail the manner and form in which Defendants have complied with the
25 requirements of the Injunction and Order.
26 DAMAGES:
27 3. Defendants be required to account for and pay over to HOMME all
28 damages sustained by HOMME and any and all profits realized by Defendants by
1 reason of their unlawful acts alleged herein, in an amount to be proven at trial, and
2 that such amounts be trebled, as and where provided by law.
3 4. Defendants be required to disgorge all money and property, including
4 profits, illegally obtained by Defendants as a result of their false advertising acts and
5 practices pursuant to all applicable statutes and common law including, without
6 limitation, California Business and Professions Code§ 17535 et seq.
7 5. Defendants pay HOMME increased, enhanced, and/or punitive
8 damages to the fullest extent authorized by law for their oppression, fraud, and
9 malice for their violation of HOMME's rights under common law.
6. Defendants be required to pay to HOMME all of his costs,
11 disbursements and attorneys' fees in this action.
12 OTHER RELIEF:
7. HOMME have such other and further relief as the Court may deem
14 appropriate to prevent the infringement ofthe KYUSS mark, and to prevent further
15 and/or additional acts of unfair competition, and each of them.
HOMME have such other relief as the Court deems proper.
19 DATED: March 9, 2012 CONNOLLY BOVE LODGE & HUTZ LLP
for aintiff
2 Plaintiff Joshua Homme hereby demands a jury trial in this action.
DATED: March 9, 2012 CONNOLLY BOVE LODGE & HUTZ LLP
Suite 1201. Suite 2200. California 92250. Plaintiff is informed and believes. ("KLI") is a California corporation authorized to do business and currently doing business in the State of California. Plaintiff is informed and believes. California 90025. whose address is 72631 Spyglass Lane. and therefore sues them by their fictitious names. Plaintiff will seek leave to amend this complaint when their actions and/or true names and capacities are ascertained. and thereupon alleges. whether individual. Inc.1 2 Plaintiff Joshua Homme ("Plaintiff" or "HOMME") complains and alleges as follows: 3 4 5 6 7 PARTIES 1. Los Angeles. Plaintiff is informed and believes. with his principal place of residence located at c/o Myman Greenspan Fineman Fox Rosenberg & Light LLP. Los Angeles. that defendant 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 John Garcia ("GARCIA") is an individual. California 90025. 5. and thereupon alleges. Morongo Valley. with a principal place of business located at 12121 Wilshire Boulevard. and thereupon alleges. KLI and KLR are hereafter collectively referred to as "KL 11 • 4. Plaintiff is informed and believes. 3. Plaintiff is informed COMPLAINT AND DEMAND FOR INJUNCTIVE RELIEF AND DAMAGES 28 . and thereupon alleges. named herein as DOES 1 through 10. that defendant Brant Bjork ( 11 BJORK") is an individual. that defendant 8 9 Kyuss Lives. Suite 1201. whose address is 49940 Aspen Drive. LLC ("KLR") is a California limited liability company authorized to do business and currently doing business in the State of California. inclusive (the "DOE Defendants"). 6. that defendant 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Kyuss Lives Recording. California 92260. Los Angeles. Plaintiff is unaware of the actions. Palm Desert. with its principal place of business located at 12121 Wilshire Boulevard. Plaintiff is a United States individual. corporate and/or partnership entities. 11601 Wilshire Boulevard. California 90025. 2. names and/or true capacities of Defendants.
§§ 1331 and 1338 as it involves claims arising under the Lanham Act and the Copyright Act. for unfair competition under California Business and Professions Code§§ 17200 et seq. and that at all times referenced each was the agent and servant of the other Defendants and was acting within the course and scope of said agency and service. ratified and encouraged such acts and behavior. COMPLAINT AND DEMAND FOR INJUNCTIVE RELIEF AND DAMAGES . et seq. each of the Defendants herein.S.S. § 1121 and 28 U. Plaintiff further alleges that Defendants had a non-delegable duty to prevent or cure such acts and the behavior described herein.S. that at all relevant times herein. and common law and other related rights under the statutory and common law of the State of California. and they are committing the acts hereinafter alleged in this State and the Central District of California. and by their actions and/or inactions directed. knew or reasonably should have known of the acts and behavior alleged herein and the damages caused thereby.C. This Court has supplemental subject matter jurisdiction over all other claims pursuant to 28 U. which duty Defendants failed and/or refused to perform.S. 7. and thereupon alleges. and thereupon alleges. 9. § 1367 because they are so related that they form part of the same case or controversy. false designation of origin and unfair competition arising under the United States Trademark Act of 1946. passing off. Plaintiff is informed and believes. JURISDICTION AND VENUE 8.1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 and believes.C. §§ 1051. as amended. including the DOE Defendants (collectively.C. This is a civil action for trademark infringement. This Court has personal jurisdiction over the Defendants in that they are doing business in the State of California and the Central District of California. misrepresentation. 10. 15 U. directed. that said Defendants and the DOE Defendants are in some manner responsible for the wrongs alleged herein. (the "Lanham Act") and the common law. "Defendants").C. This Court has subject matter jurisdiction of this action pursuant to 15 U.
among other things. The group was originally formed in the late 1980's and released an eponymous extended-play ("EP") record under the name SONS OF KYUSS in 1990. set forth the manner in which the Original Partners could exploit the Name. Specifically.4 of the Agreement states that COMPLAINT AND DEMAND FOR INJUNCTIVE RELIEF AND DAMAGES . As of January 1. After shortening the group name to KYUSS.C.1 2 3 4 11. both released on independent labels. followed by the eponymous "Kyuss" a/k/a "Welcome to Sky Valley". and generate revenue to the Original Partners.S. 1994 the Original Partners entered into an agreement (the "Agreement") that. BACKGROUNDFACTS In July 1992. §§ 1391(b) and (c) and 1400(a) in that Plaintiff resides in this District. 15. Defendants are headquartered and operate in this District and the events giving rise to the claim occurred in the Central District of California. GARCIA and Reeder were the core group members with decisionmaking power governing group business and creative direction. And the Circus Leaves Town. HOMME and GARCIA were founding members of the group and were the only continuous members throughout the group's working life ending in 1995. and " . Each of the respective Original Partners moved on to other musical projects." Shortly after the release of the latter album. the group released a series of albums which included "Wretch" and "Blues for the Red Sun". however.. 14. 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 12. GARCIA and Scott Reeder (collectively referred to herein as the "Original Partners") began recording and performing together as a musical group under the name KYUSS (the "Name"). Original KYUSS recordings and merchandise remain currently available on the open market. the group disbanded and ceased performing under the Name. in or around October. HOMME. HOMME. 1995. 13.. Venue for this action is proper in the Central District of California pursuant to 28 U. Paragraph 14. A number of other individuals performed with the group.
At the time he was forming his new group using the KYUSS name. On information and belief.474. signed the Agreement. Nos. endorsements. compositions. and has extensive performance bookings forthcoming in 20 12 under the KYUSS LIVES name. merchandising and all other activities involving their use of the KYUSS and KYUSS LIVES marks. KL has proceeded to file several United States federal trademark applications for the marks KYUSS and KYUSS LIVES. GARCIA stated that "There is never going to be a KYUSS without Josh Homme. 19. and 85/418. Each of the Original Partners. and 85/418.458. merchandise. unless there were at least two (2) Original Partners present and participating as group members. 85/418. Without the authorization or consent of HOMME and/or Mr. GARCIA's KYUSS LIVES group has also commenced marketing an extensive line of merchandise bearing the KYUSS and KYUSS LIVES marks in direct competition with the KYUSS merchandise mentioned in Paragraph 13 above. including GARCIA. 20. 85/418. recording. Australia and New Zealand. Ser. 18.462 for KYUSS LIVES. 16. merchandise.1 2 3 4 (b) If at any time the Partnership consists of fewer than two (2) original Partners. GARCIA's new musical group performed in North America. recordings. Europe. no one was authorized to use the Name on or in connection with any performances. including Appl. GARCIA is the only Original Partner in the KYUSS LIVES group. and other goods and/or services. In 2010 and 2011. KLI and KLR were formed at GARCIA's and BJORK's direction in connection with their performing. endorsed products and other materials placed in commerce prior to such time. 11 Thus. Reeder. 11 17. the Partnership may no longer explmt the Group Name in any manner except with respect to master recordmgs.454 for COMPLAINT AND DEMAND FOR INJUNCTIVE RELIEF AND DAMAGES . 21. In November 2010.433 and 85/418. GARCIA announced a "reunion" under the 11 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 moniker KYUSS LIVES.
The KYUSS mark is thus associated with the 1990's-era incarnation of the group. 2005. 22. 25. all in connection with live performances by a musical group. granted on June 21. 24. sold under. with Alfredo Hemndez [sic]. which was agreed upon and maintained by the consensus ofthe Original Partners. and apparel merchandise. The registration is incontestable. Registration No. sale and consumer acceptance of those products. 26. hats and jackets". and particularly the performances and recordings during the period in which HOMME was an active member. In so doing. HOMME's success in his subsequent musical endeavors. and/or in conjunction with the KYUSS mark. and has been in continuous use in connection with sound recordings since that time. The Original Partners have expended great effort and large sums of money in making and overseeing music. the Name has come to symbolize a certain level of quality and consistency in connection with all products bearing. performances and merchandise bearing the Name.962. namely tshirts. including his current group "Queens of the Stone Age". 2. consumers have come to view the KYUSS mark as exclusively identifying products associated with the group comprising the Original Partners. which has become well-known to relevant audiences throughout the United States and the world. in the name of KLI. own U.S. which included the Original Partners. The Original Partners' KYUSS mark has been in use in connection with the foregoing apparel merchandise since at least as early as 1991. The Original Partners. and as a result of the subsequent success of advertising.1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 KYUSS.692 for KYUSS in connection with "clothing. has resulted in increased audience COMPLAINT AND DEMAND FOR INJUNCTIVE RELIEF AND DAMAGES . 23. musical recordings. sweatshirts. As a result of the high quality of products sold under and/or in conjunction with the Name. The KYUSS mark symbolizes the goodwill created by the Original Partners' collective creative endeavors in live and recorded music and associated ancillary merchandise.
that each of The Name has not been assigned nor licensed to the Defendants for any the foregoing actions of the Defendants will falsely mislead and/or confuse consumers about the source of origin. and is likely to lead consumers to mistakenly and/or falsely believe that Defendants' goods and services are associated with. 27. approval or other business relationship between HOMME and the group as it was comprised of the Original Partners on the one hand. in order to prevent the infringement. 31. The Original Partners have the sole and exclusive worldwide rights to use and/or to control the use of the Name. HOMME is informed and believes. DEFENDANTS' UNLAWFUL ACTIVITIES 29.1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 curiosity and excitement for the KYUSS name and the group's back-catalog of recordings. 28. that as a proximate result of the advantage accruing to Defendants' business as a proximate COMPLAINT AND DEMAND FOR INJUNCTIVE RELIEF AND DAMAGES . sponsored. or colorable or confusingly similar imitations thereof like KYUSS LIVES.L goods and services on the other. As a result. is unfair. and colorable imitations thereof. unlawful. Defendants' use of the Name. or made. and the K. and thereupon alleges. disparagement. 30. recordings and ancillary merchandise. dilution and/or other misappropriation thereof. in connection with music-related goods and services including live performances. purpose. leading to continued interest in the group's recordings and merchandise. 32. Defendants will likely unfairly benefit from HOMME's and the Original Partners' valuable goodwill and hard-earned reputation for quality and consistency. which is not the case. HOMME is informed and believes. and thereupon alleges. These consequences were foreseeable at the time Defendants changed the name of their performing group from "Garcia Plays Kyuss" to KYUSS LIVES. or approved by HOMME and/or the Original Partners. Defendants have acquired a cachet and salability for their products which they would not otherwise have had. association. sponsorship.
intentional. 15 U. 27 28 COMPLAINT AND DEMAND FOR INJUNCTIVE RELIEF AND DAMAGES . Defendants have received illicit profits and wrongful gains. As a result of the foregoing infringement. § 1114(1). Defendants' conduct has caused. as amended. 35. HOMME has no adequate remedy at law for such harm. 36. Given the nature and extent of the unauthorized use and attempted registration of the KYUSS Trademarks. § 1114) HOMME repeats and realleges the allegations in paragraphs 1 through 33 as though fully set forth herein. HOMME is further informed and believes.C. and Defendants have received illicit profits and wrongful gains.1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 result of confusion.S. HOMME has been injured. HOMME is further informed and believes. will continue to cause additional harm to HOMME amounting to irreparable in a manner that cannot be calculated or compensated in money damages. 33. and if not enjoined. 37. that Defendants' actions alleged above are willful. and thereupon alleges. The aforesaid acts of Defendants constitute infringement and/or contributory infringement of the Original Partners' registered trademark. deception and/or mistake caused by Defendants' wrongful conduct as alleged herein. u. FIRST CAUSE OF ACTION TRADEMARK INFRINGEMENT (15 34.s. in violation of section 32(1) of the Trademark Act of 1946. such that HOMME is entitled to recover enhanced damages and his attorneys' fees.c. and HOMME has suffered damages. and thereupon alleges that Defendants' actions and infringements are willful and objectively unreasonable. objectively unreasonable and malicious.
HOMME has been injured.1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 38. § 1125(a)(l)(B) and/or common law.S. Defendants' acts as alleged above are unlawful by. as well as to HOMME's good name.C. HOMME has no adequate remedy at law. Defendants' acts as alleged above misrepresent the nature. Defendants continue to make use of a colorable imitation of the Name. offering for sale. in order to capitalize on the good name. 39. including without limitation music composed by HOMME. activities or information in violation ofthe Lanham Act.S.C. 42. in violation of the Lanham Act. creating and/or by permitting others to create a false designation of origin and/or to unfairly compete in a manner which is likely to cause confusion. Defendants' conduct has also caused. 40. reputation and goodwill of HOMME. characteristics and/or qualities of Defendants' goods. § 1125(a)(1)(A) and/or common law. connection. 43. as well as the sale. 41. or as to the origin. SECOND CAUSE OF ACTION FALSE DESIGNATION OF ORIGIN (15 U. irreparable damage to the Name. services. and if not enjoined. will continue to cause. services and/or activities. notoriety. § 1125(a) and Common Law) HOMME repeats and realleges the allegations in paragraphs 1 through 37 as though fully set forth herein. or cause mistake. As a result of the foregoing. or approval by HOMME ofDefendants' goods. 15 U. sponsorship. reputation and goodwill. COMPLAINT AND DEMAND FOR INJUNCTIVE RELIEF AND DAMAGES . 15 U.S. or deceive consumers as to the affiliation. distribution and/or dissemination of prerecorded music and ancillary merchandise products. With knowledge of HOMME's rights in the Name. or association between Defendants and HOMME. and Defendants have received illicit profits and wrongful gains.C. including without limitation through the performance and recording of music. inter alia. in a manner that cannot be calculated or compensated in money damages.
including without limitation through the performance and recording of music. § 1125(a) and Common Law) HOMME repeats and realleges the allegations in paragraphs 1 through 43 as though fully set forth herein. characteristics. inter alia. COMPLAINT AND DEMAND FOR INJUNCTIVE RELIEF AND DAMAGES . in violation of the Lanham Act. Defendants' acts as alleged above are unlawful by. HOMME has been injured.C. services. 15 U. 46. Defendants' conduct has also caused. in a manner which is likely to cause confusion. activities or information in violation of the Lanham Act. in order to capitalize on the good name. and Defendants have received illicit profits and wrongful gains. 48.C. THIRD CAUSE OF ACTION MISREPRESENTATION AND PASSING OFF (15 U. or association between Defendants and HOMME. 49. With knowledge of HOMME's rights in the Name. connection.S.C. Defendants continue to make use of a colorable imitation of the Name. will continue to cause. in a manner that cannot be calculated or compensated in money damages. HOMME has no adequate remedy at law.1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 44. including without limitation music composed by HOMME.S. or as to the origin. 15 U. distribution and/or dissemination of prerecorded music and ancillary merchandise products. § 1125(a)(l)(A) and/or common law. or cause mistake. services and/or activities. sponsorship. as well as the sale. As a result of the foregoing. 47. or geographic origin ofDefendants' goods. Defendants' acts as alleged above misrepresent the nature. or approval by HOMME ofDefendants' goods. irreparable damage to the Name. passing themselves off and/or permitting others to pass Defendants off as the group comprising the Original Members. reputation and goodwill of HOMME. offering for sale. reputation and goodwill. as well as to HOMME's good name. 45. qualities.S. notoriety. or deceive consumers as to the affiliation. § 1125(a)(1)(B) and/or common law. and if not enjoined.
As a result of the foregoing infringement. HOMME has been injured. 55. 52. FOURTH CAUSE OF ACTION COMMON LAW TRADEMARK INFRINGEMENT (Common Law) HOMME repeats and realleges the allegations in paragraphs 1 through 5 6 7 8 9 10 49 as though fully set forth herein. the damage to HOMME will increase. The aforesaid acts of Defendants constitute infringement and/or contributory infringement under common law of the KYUSS Mark owned by the Original Partners. 57. and will continue to suffer irreparable damage and. HOMME has been injured. knowingly and intentionally engaged in acts of unfair competition under California Business and Professions Code§ 17200 et seq.) HOMME repeats and realleges the allegations in paragraphs 1 through 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 53 as though fully set forth herein. and Defendants have received illicit profits and wrongful gains. HOMME has no adequate remedy at law for such harm. unless Defendants are restrained from continuing their wrongful acts. HOMME has no adequate remedy at law for such harm. and if not enjoined. As a result of the foregoing. have willfully. COMPLAINT AND DEMAND FOR INJUNCTIVE RELIEF AND DAMAGES . and Defendants have received illicit profits and wrongful gains. HOMME has also suffered. FIFTH CAUSE OF ACTION STATUTORY UNFAIR COMPETITION (California Business and Professions Code§§ 17200 et seq. By reason of Defendants' acts as alleged herein. Defendants. will continue to cause irreparable damage to HOMME in a manner that cannot be calculated or compensated in money damages. 51. 56. Defendants' conduct has also caused. by virtue of their acts as alleged above. 15 16 17 18 54. 11 12 13 14 53. is suffering.1 2 3 4 50.
64. deliberate and malicious. HOMME repeats and realleges the allegations in paragraphs 1 through 62 as though fully set forth herein. by way of publications or other advertising devices. with the intent to sell and/or induce the public to purchase and/or disseminate and/or cause to be disseminated before the public. and intentionally engaged in acts of unfair competition under the common law of the State of California. directly or indirectly. will continue to cause irreparable damage to HOMME in a manner that cannot be calculated or compensated in money damages. have willfully. 60. HOMME repeats and realleges the allegations in paragraphs 1 through 57 as though fully set forth herein. and/or enabling others to palm off the KL goods and services as products and performances made by. Defendants. EIGHTH CAUSE OF ACTION FALSE ADVERTISING 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 (California Business & Professions Code§§ 17500 et seq.1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 SIXTH CAUSE OF ACTION COMMON LAW UNFAIR COMPETITION (Common Law) 58. including without limitation. In engaging in the aforesaid acts. statements concerning Defendants' goods and services which are untrue and/or misleading. knowingly. Defendants have acted and are continuing to act. Defendants' conduct has been willful. As a result of the foregoing. including HOMME. or authorized by the Original Partners. 62. maliciously. and which COMPLAINT AND DEMAND FOR INJUNCTIVE RELIEF AND DAMAGES . by virtue of their acts as alleged above. Defendants' conduct has also caused. 61. 59. palming off. HOMME has no adequate remedy at law for such harm. and Common Law) 63. sponsored by. and if not enjoined. HOMME has been injured. and/or attempting to palm off. and Defendants have received illicit profits and wrongful gains.
66. and each of them. through or under them. and preliminarily and thereafter permanently enjoined and restrained from: COMPLAINT AND DEMAND FOR INJUNCTIVE RELIEF AND DAMAGES . 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 HOMME will continue to be irreparably injured by reason of Defendants' false advertising. HOMME is informed and believes. employees. Unless enjoined by this Court. agents. illegally obtained by Defendants by means of such unfair business acts and practices should be ordered by this Court pursuant to California Business and Professions Code § 1753 5.1 2 3 4 5 Defendants know. Disgorgement by Defendants of all money and property. that Defendants' acts have resulted and will continue to result in substantial profits to Defendants to which they are not entitled. In addition. that there is a substantial possibility and threat of ongoing false advertisement by Defendants for which HOMME is without adequate remedy at law. 65. 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 PRAYER FOR RELIEF WHEREFORE. subsidiaries and related companies and all persons acting for. be temporarily restrained from. Defendants have proceeded and are proceeding with the aforesaid acts deliberately and willfully. are untrue and/or misleading. By the aforesaid acts. parents. their officers. and thereon alleges. HOMME prays for judgment against Defendants as follows: INJUNCTIVE RELIEF: For preliminary and permanent injunctive relief that: 1. servants. HOMME is informed and believes. attorneys. 67. including profits. Defendants have engaged in and are engaging in false advertising in violation of California Business and Business Code§ 17500 et seq. by. If Defendants are permitted to proceed with the aforesaid acts. Defendants. and thereon alleges. or upon exercise of reasonable care should know. with.
do not originate with. the sale. or approved or authorized by the Original Partners and/or HOMME. or any other trademark owned by or associated with HOMME. or sold by Defendants. words. or individual members thereof. otherwise engaging in any other activity constituting an infringement of the KYUSS name and mark. 2. so long as such goods and/or services do not emanate from. sound recordings and/or ancillary apparel and other merchandise. distributed. including without limitation the mark KYUSS LIVES. a. performed. to believe that any goods and services created. DAMAGES: Defendants be required to account for and pay over to HOMME all damages sustained by HOMME and any and all profits realized by Defendants by COMPLAINT AND DEMAND FOR INJUNCTIVE RELIEF AND DAMAGES . b. or. or are not licensed by the Original Partners and/or HOMME. or is likely to. using any false designation of origin or false description that can. packaging or trade dress likely to cause confusion therewith. Defendants file with the Court and serve upon HOMME's counsel within thirty (30) days after entry of Judgment a report in writing under oath setting forth in detail the manner and form in which Defendants have complied with the requirements of the Injunction and Order.1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 3. and/or from unfairly competing with HOMME in any way. in connection with the live performance and/or recording of music. lead the public. or. advertising or promotion of their goods and services. licensed. or. or any word. sponsored. manufactured.. c. doing or causing to be done any further acts in violation of California Business and Professions Code§ 17500 et seq. is in any manner associated or connected with the Original Partners and/or HOMME. distribution. including but not limited to live performances. including but not limited to recordings and ancillary merchandise such as apparel goods. manufacture. d. or is sold. seeking to register and/or using in any manner the KYUSS mark.
enhanced. 2012 CONNOLLY BOVE LODGE & HUTZ LLP By:~ Attot'Il~S for aintiff JOSHUA HOMME 24 25 26 27 28 COMPLAINT AND DEMAND FOR INJUNCTIVE RELIEF AND DAMAGES . 6. 4. illegally obtained by Defendants as a result of their false advertising acts and practices pursuant to all applicable statutes and common law including. and/or punitive damages to the fullest extent authorized by law for their oppression. including profits. For prejudgment interest. as and where provided by law. 5. fraud.1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 reason of their unlawful acts alleged herein. without limitation. and each of them. Defendants be required to pay to HOMME all of his costs. and malice for their violation of HOMME's rights under common law. and to prevent further and/or additional acts of unfair competition. OTHER RELIEF: 7. 19 20 21 22 23 DATED: March 9. California Business and Professions Code§ 17535 et seq. and that such amounts be trebled. HOMME have such other relief as the Court deems proper. HOMME have such other and further relief as the Court may deem appropriate to prevent the infringement ofthe KYUSS mark. 8. Defendants be required to disgorge all money and property. Defendants pay HOMME increased. disbursements and attorneys' fees in this action. 17 18 9. in an amount to be proven at trial.
DATED: March 9. 2012 CONNOLLY BOVE LODGE & HUTZ LLP 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 By: -~ ~ .1 DEMAND FOR JURY TRIAL Plaintiff Joshua Homme hereby demands a jury trial in this action.hire for aintiff ~ JOSHUA HOMME 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 COMPLAINT AND DEMAND FOR INJUNCTIVE RELIEF AND DAMAGES . Attof!l~S ~~~f.
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