Joan Jett Sues Hot Topic for Apparel Trademark Infringement

Rock star Joan Jett's Blackheart Records Group sued mall-based retailer Hot Topic for trademark infringement, claiming the chain is selling its own line of women's clothing under the Blackheart brand. Blackheart, named for Jett's band, said in a filing dated June 12 in Manhattan federal court that consumers would be confused by apparel being sold by the retailer under that name. According to the complaint, Hot Topic approached Blackheart in February 2010 to design and distribute clothing and other merchandise featuring the brand.