A legal dispute between two of music’s most influential producers has resurfaced, as Chad Hugo, a founding member of The Neptunes and N.E.R.D., has filed a second lawsuit against Pharrell Williams alleging withheld royalties. The lawsuit, filed January 23, claims Williams engaged in “self-dealing” and failed to adequately compensate Hugo for his contributions to both The Neptunes and N.E.R.D., potentially costing Hugo millions of dollars.
According to court documents reported by Billboard, Hugo’s legal team asserts that Williams concealed financial information and diverted revenue rightfully belonging to Hugo. The suit specifically cites a lack of payment for album sales, touring income, and merchandising related to The Neptunes and N.E.R.D. Hugo is seeking up to $1 million in damages, specifically related to unpaid royalties from N.E.R.D. Merchandise dating back to September 2023, and revenue tied to the group’s 2017 album, NO ONE EVER REALLY DIES.
This is not the first time Hugo has taken legal action against Williams. In March 2024, Hugo initiated a lawsuit accusing Williams of attempting to fraudulently secure sole control over the trademarks associated with The Neptunes’ production and songwriting work. That case remains ongoing in federal court, according to reports. The current legal action builds on Hugo’s prior attempts, dating back to 2021, to obtain full financial transparency regarding The Neptunes’ earnings through royalty statements and financial records. His attorneys claim that Williams has either ignored these requests or provided incomplete documentation.
The rift between the longtime collaborators, who rose to prominence in the late 1990s and early 2000s producing hits for artists like Britney Spears, Jay-Z, and Justin Timberlake, became public in September 2024. Williams revealed to Billboard that he and Hugo were no longer speaking, despite expressing continued affection and gratitude for their shared history. “I love him, and I always wish him the absolute best, and I’m very grateful for our time together,” Williams stated at the time.
The legal battles underscore a breakdown in communication and trust between the two producers, who together revolutionized popular music with their innovative sound. The outcome of these lawsuits could have significant implications for the future of The Neptunes’ intellectual property and the financial interests of both Hugo and Williams.
