Pharrell Addresses Chad Hugo’s Lawsuit Over Alleged Withheld Payments

Pharrell Williams has responded to a lawsuit from his former partner Chad Hugo, who alleges he is owed substantial unpaid royalties. The suit was filed in federal court in California on January 23, 2024. Hugo claims that Pharrell has withheld payments for their collaborative work with The Neptunes and N.E.R.D., alongside failing to provide proper accounting for their company, N.E.R.D. Music, LLC, established in 2014.

Details of the Lawsuit

Chad Hugo asserts that he is the “principal composer, arranger, multi-instrumentalist, and producer responsible for programming, instrumentation, and overall sound design” within The Neptunes. He contends that Pharrell was solely responsible for managing their company’s finances but has inadequately handled income, expenses, and royalties. Hugo claims he has sought access to the financial records since 2021 with little success.

• Hugo estimates he is owed between $325,000 and $1 million.
• The claim includes unpaid royalties from their music sales, touring income, and merchandising deals.
• The lawsuit alleges that Pharrell “engaged in self-dealing” and “concealed material information.”

Pharrell’s Response

A representative for Pharrell has denied Hugo’s allegations, stating that “a standard accounting review is already in progress.” They remarked that the lawsuit was premature, emphasizing that there may not be a current dispute between the parties. Pharrell has expressed respect for Hugo and aims to resolve matters amicably.

History of Disputes

This lawsuit is not the first legal conflict between Pharrell and Hugo. In 2024, Hugo filed legal action against Pharrell, claiming that he unlawfully sought sole control of The Neptunes’ trademark. Hugo argued this violated their long-standing agreement to share ownership. In Pharrell’s defense, representatives noted they had repeatedly offered to share ownership and administration of the trademark.

• Past collaborations include hits for artists like JAY-Z and Snoop Dogg.
• The ongoing dispute has disappointed many fans and collaborators, including Pusha T.

The resolution of this legal matter remains pending as both parties seek an equitable solution to their historical collaboration. Filmogaz.com will continue to monitor developments in this significant case.