Trademark Lesson Learned from Kanye’s Sunday Service

“First I get my money right…Then I get my team on” — Kanye West
It’s common for entrepreneurs to want to wait until they “get their money right” before hiring a lawyer to protect their brands.
Waiting too long to legally protect your brand can cost you more money in the long run.
Kanye West recently experienced this with his “Sunday Service” trademark application.
Lesson: Wait too long and someone could steal your trademark.
Kanye filed a trademark application for “Sunday Service” but it was rejected, because someone else owns the rights.
Kanye West launched his “Sunday Service” musical performances in January 2019.
According to media reports, Kanye West expressed a desire to trademark his “Sunday Service” merchandise around July 24.
Mascotte Holdings, Inc. filed an application for the “Sunday Service” mark on July 19, 2019 in the categories of clothing, shirts, socks and more. Kanye West also wanted to register his trademark for use on t-shirts, hoodies and socks.

When someone files a trademark application with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and the trademark is actually issued, they get the exclusive right to use the mark nationwide in connections with the goods/services listed on the registration.
It looks like Kanye waited too long to protect his “Sunday Service” trademark.
His lawyers will most likely challenge the current “Sunday Service” trademark registration.
Or maybe Kanye will attempt to buy the rights from Mascotte Holdings…we will have to see how “Sunday Service” trademark battle plays out.
About the author: Johnetta was profiled in Forbes Magazine and CBS Chicago for her business knowledge. She has been instrumental in building two multi-million dollar businesses.
She is the Founding Partner of J. Paye & Associates Attorneys at Law. A boutique law firm that specializes in business, entertainment and real estate law.
The information contained here is intended to provide useful information on the topic covered but should not be construed as one-size-fits-all legal advice. Speak to an attorney specifically about your trademark issue.
