By Status Ain't Hood Staff
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August 26, 2026
C+C Music Factory co-founder Robert Clivillés has filed a federal lawsuit against longtime creative partner Frederick “Freedom” Williams, alleging that Williams improperly used the group’s name for decades. The nine-count complaint, filed August 14 in the Eastern District of New York, seeks at least $10 million in compensatory damages, with potential treble damages under the Lanham Act increasing the trademark-related claim to $30 million. Clivillés is also seeking punitive damages and an injunction preventing further unauthorized use of the name. At the center of the dispute is ownership of the C+C Music Factory name. According to the complaint, the initials refer specifically to Clivillés and the late David Cole, who formed the group in New York City in 1990. Clivillés claims an estate settlement agreement reached with Cole’s estate in 1996 made him the sole authorized user of the C+C Music Factory name and brand. The lawsuit characterizes Williams as a featured performer rather than a founder or co-owner, noting that several other vocalists also contributed to the group’s recordings. The complaint alleges that Williams began performing as C+C Music Factory without Clivillés’ authorization after pursuing a solo career, eventually earning thousands of dollars per performance. Clivillés is asking the court to cancel a C+C Music Factory trademark currently held by Williams’ company, Freedom Williams Entertainment LLC. The lawsuit also cites a June 2026 recording, “Into the Future,” as an example of alleged unauthorized use. The nine claims include trademark infringement, fraud, unfair competition, unjust enrichment, defamation and breach of contract.