Jay- Z has sued a small Australian online retailer for using lyrics from his song and his name. The lyrics of the song “99 problems,” was used on the back of their children’s alphabet book. The book is titled AB to Jay-Z.
According to the rapper’s lawyer, the company traded on his likeness and infringed on the copyright to the lyrics to “99 Problems.”
The book cover reads “If you’re having alphabet problems I feel bad for you.” Obviously a play of Jay-Z‘s famous hook: “If you having girl problems I feel bad for you son, I got 99 problems but a bitch ain’t one.”
In addition, the lawsuit said Jay-Z asked the company to stop selling the books in March 2018. Despite exchanges with the rapper’s lawyer there was no resolution. However, Jessica Chiha owner of the business “The Little Homie” has reacted to the lawsuit.
“We are unbelievably disappointed to find ourselves caught in legal battle with someone whose music we love and adore.”
She added that The Little Homie was created so parents could connect with their children through something they love. She says it helps during the transition to the parenthood. Another reason Chiha gave is her love of hip-hop and the artists she grew up listening to.
According to Forbes, Jay-z is a billionaire who is officially worth $100m while his streaming service Tidal is also worth $100m.