No surprises there. Activision is now countersuing No Doubt for having the audacity to sue them. OK, not according to Activision, of course. But that’s what it comes off like.
Many of you will remember not too long ago when No Doubt filed a suit against Activision for the use of their avatar in the game Band Hero. Apparently, they felt they’d been misled on how the avatar would be used, and were upset that the band could be split up, or that certain members could perform other artists’ songs. Fast forward to now.
The Hollywood Reporter has dug up a countersuit on the part of Activision that accuses No Doubt of not living up to the part of their contract that requires them to promote the game. Now, they don’t mention any specific events or times when No Doubt was supposed to have promoted the game, but they may consider the lawsuit filed to be the opposite of promotion, which would make them in breach of contract.
Now here’s the really rotten part. As if taking advantage of all encompassing legal documents weren’t enough, they’re suing for damages, for lawyer’s fees, and everything they paid No Doubt for use of their image. In other words, they not only want No Doubt to cover the fees incurred, but they now also want their performance for free for the trouble.
Poor form, Activision. How can you expect any new artists to sign on with you if you’re going to behave like this? Damages and lawyer’s fees are one thing, but their pay, too? Shame on you.
