The band formerly known as Lady Antebellum has taken to the courts to request rights for their new name, Lady A, from their Blues singer namesake.
On Wednesday, July 8, the popular country trio has sued the Seattle-based African-American blues singer Anita White. White has been going by the "Lady A" name for more than twenty years now. The former Lady Antebellum has taken to a Nashville court to grant them the right to use the name, Pitchfork reports. The online news portal clarified that the "Need You Now" and "Bartender" artist is not looking for monetary damages. The band Lady A is also not trying to block Anita White from performing using her longtime stage name.
"Today we are sad to share that our sincere hope to join together with Anita White in unity and common purpose has ended," the band statement said. They alleged that White and her team demanded a $10 million payment, prompting the former Lady Antebellum to ask the courts. They have also claimed that the name "Lady A" is "a trademark we have held for many years." The statement then explained that they "had heartfelt discussions with her" about coming together and making "something special and beautiful out of this moment." Their statement also added how they share stories, listen to each other, and even write a song about their common experiences. "We're disappointed that we won't be able to work together with Anita for that greater purpose," their statement continued. The band has reaffirmed its commitment. Lady A said that they're "doing our part to fight for the racial justice so desperately needed." In US History, the Antebellum refers to the period before the 1861 eruption of the American Civil War. However, the band formerly known as Lady Antebellum got their name from the Antebellum-style buildings in the South. These homes were the backdrop for one of the band's photo shoot. RELATED: Antebellum's Meaning Compels Band to Change Name to "Lady A" Last June 11, the band released a statement. Lady A began their message by saying that they have strived for their music to be a "refuge... inclusive of all." Following the Black Lives Matter across the country, they noted that "blindspots we didn't even know existed have been revealed." They explained that the term reminded them of the Southern music that was their musical influence. "But we are regretful and embarrassed to say that we did not take into account the associations that weigh down this word," Lady A admitted. For Lady Antebellum, "Lady A" was also the longtime nickname fans have been using to refer to the band. They have used the name since 2006, since the band was formed in Nashville, Tennessee. The band is comprised of Hillary Scott, Dave Haywood, and Charles Kelley. Hillary is from a music family, being the daughter of country musician Linda Davis. Davis is best known for her 1993 collaboration with fellow country artist Reba McEntire in the hit "Does He Love You." From another country music family, Charles is the younger brother to country-pop singer and songwriter Josh Kelley.
NASHVILLE, TN - NOVEMBER 12: In this handout photo provided by The Country Rising Fund of The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, (L-R) Singers Dave Haywood, Hillary Scott, and Charles Kelley of Lady Antebellum perform onstage for the Country Rising Benefit Concert at Bridgestone Arena on November 12, 2017 in Nashville, Tennessee.
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