Beastie Boys Awarded $1.7 Million In Copyright Case Against Monster Beverage

Hip hop group the Beastie Boys have won their lawsuit against Monster Beverage and have been awarded $1.7 million.  The lawsuit originated in 2012 when Monster illegally used Beastie Boys’ music in a promotional video.  The video included parts of the Beastie Boy’s “Sabotage”, “So What’cha Want”, “Make Some Noise”, and “Looking Down the Barrel of a Gun”.  The website also allegedly included a 23-minute medley of Beastie Boys songs made available for download.

After the death of Beastie Boy member Adam Yauch, it was found in his will that it specifically prohibits any company from using the group’s music for advertisements.  This request added weight to the lawsuit against Monster.  Reportedly, the Beastie Boys sought up to $2.5 million for copyright infringement and false endorsement. According to the Beastie Boys’ complaint,

“The public was confused into believing that the plaintiffs sponsored, endorsed and are associated with defendant Monster in promoting defendant Monster’s productions and promotional events.” 

Monster’s lawyer told Reuters that they plan to appeal the verdict.

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