Story perspectives

FKA Twigs Sues Indie Band Over Trademark Dispute

3/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

Tahliah Barnett, known as FKA Twigs, sued indie band The Twigs (Laura and Linda Good), alleging cease-and-desist letters and a seven-figure payout demand.
Barnett's team argues the acts operate in different commercial ecosystems, making consumer confusion unlikely.
FKA Twigs has 3.2 million monthly Spotify listeners, contrasting with The Twigs’ 25.
Barnett seeks a jury trial to affirm her trademark rights and notes no credible evidence of consumer confusion.

History

Historical Context

The 2003 Supreme Court case Mattel, Inc. v. MCA Records, Inc. established that artistic expression, such as parody, is protected under trademark law. This ruling stemmed from a 1997 lawsuit where Mattel claimed the song "Barbie Girl" tarnished its brand. The ongoing legal disputes, including a recent case involving indie band The Twigs, highlight the complexities of trademark rights in the evolving music industry.

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Story summary

Tahliah Barnett, known as FKA Twigs, sued indie band The Twigs (Laura and Linda Good), alleging cease-and-desist letters and a seven-figure payout demand.
Barnett's team argues the acts operate in different commercial ecosystems, making consumer confusion unlikely.
FKA Twigs has 3.2 million monthly Spotify listeners, contrasting with The Twigs’ 25.
Barnett seeks a jury trial to affirm her trademark rights and notes no credible evidence of consumer confusion.

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