Californication in title fight
- Published by David Knox
- on
- Filed under News
“Californication is the signature CD, video and song of the band’s career, and for some TV show to come along and steal our identity is not right,” says Red Hot Chilli Pepper’s lead singer, Anthony Kiedis.
The band is suing Showtime over the use of the name for its drama series of the same name starring David Duchovny.
They have filed for damages on five counts, alleging unfair competition, dilution of the value of the name and unjust enrichment, claiming the title is “inherently distinctive, famous … and immediately associated in the mind of the consumer” with the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
Creator Tom Kapinos has previously attributed the show’s title to bumper stickers. “Apparently in the ’70s there were bumper stickers that said ‘Don’t Californicate Oregon,’ because Californians were coming up there, and I just thought it was a great, great title for this show.”
Red Hot Chilli Peppers (are any Mexicans suing them over that name?) released their big-selling album in 1999.
Source: The Age.
6 Responses
And that’s why I can’t stand the Red Hot Chilli Peppers.
I remember seeing bumper stickers in Denver and Boulder that said “Stop Californication of Colorado” in the early 90’s long before their album and song came out. When that song came out I thought they must have seen one at some point.
They are not the originators of that word….
That’s rather amusing, coming from a band who will always be remembered for dancing around in their underwear.
Only in America
The “signature CD, video and song of the band’s career”?
Some people will say anything to try for the US Lawsuit Jackpot.
Seriously, has the band been harmed by this. No! This is just a fading band making a grab for cash, nothing more.
Tell me no one didn’t immediately think of these guys when they saw the show’s promo?