Essence Festival of Culture, held annually in New Orleans, sues corporation, citing its ‘intentional exploitation of Black culture’
Spotify last year hosted an event using the branding of what is arguably the US’s largest Black cultural festival without permission, according to a lawsuit which pits the streaming giant against the organizers of the Essence Festival of Culture.
Attorneys for the festival say their lawsuit represents a stand against the “intentional exploitation of Black culture” and intellectual property against a corporation that can more than afford to pay for permission to use Essence’s branding.
Spotify did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
The Essence festival is held annually in New Orleans and is often referred to as a “party with a purpose”. In addition to celebrating Black talent, the festival also seeks to address and provide resources to Black communities in areas including health, wealth, civil engagement and technology.
Over the years, the festival has emerged as a highly lucrative gathering for both the city and the surrounding region of south-east Louisiana. Organizers estimated that its economic impact on the area was $327m while employing 3,600 for the duration of the event in 2022.
