Rapper Nicki Minaj is no longer involved in a legal battle with artist Isiah Simon after the artist decided to drop the copyright allegations.
Earlier this year Simon sued the hip-hop superstar for allegedly stealing his designs for Venice Beach paraphernalia. The design featured a woman’s cleavage shaped into a heart as a sign of love for “I Love Venice Beach.” Minaj sold a similar t-shirt but changed the words to “I Love Nicki”.
Simon reportedly received a copyright for his work back in 2015 and provided the number in his court filing. In response, the artist requested Universal cease selling the t-shirt with the similar design and all profits of the previously sold shirts paid to him. According to court documents obtained by The Jasmine Brand, Simon filed the suit in 2015, naming Minaj and Universal. He also demanded a jury trial.
It’s unclear what took place between 2015 and now but on Saturday, July 14, Simon voluntarily dropped the case against Minaj and Universal. The documents do not state whether a settlement was reached. Minaj has remained quiet about the suit.
While the “Chun-Li” rapper can rest easier with one lawsuit dismissed, she’s not quite in the clear. In March, Minaj’s smash hit “Side to Side” with Ariana Grande was named in a lawsuit alongside record label UMG. Musician Christopher R. O’Connor claims the song is too similar his track “J5 (T6)” which was recorded before “Side to Side.” O’Connor is seeking songwriting credits and royalties from UMG.
