Pharrell Williams Accused Of Trying To Erase Chad Hugo From The Neptunes While Keeping Song Credits & Royalties For Himself

Chad Hugo, Pharrell Williams

Pharrell Williams Accused Of Trying To Erase Chad Hugo From The Neptunes While Keeping Song Credits & Royalties For Himself

Pharrell Williams is facing serious accusations from longtime music partner Chad Hugo, who claims the superstar producer is attempting to erase his contributions to their legendary production duo, The Neptunes.

In an October 16 court filing, Hugo urged a federal judge to reject Williams’ request to dismiss their ongoing legal dispute involving songwriting credits, copyrights, and royalties.

Hugo’s attorneys accused Williams of an “effort to rewrite history and turn The Neptunes’ success into the work of only one person.”

“Defendants ask the Court to write Chad Hugo out of The Neptunes on the pleadings, before a single document has been produced,” the filing states. “But The Neptunes were two people.”

The former collaborators, responsible for countless hip-hop and R&B hits, reportedly agreed in 2019 to divide production income and publishing rights equally. However, Hugo alleges Williams kept earnings and recognition for music they created together.

The lawsuit involves nearly 50 recording sessions between 2019 and 2021, including EarthGang’s “U Gotta,” which Hugo claims he helped create without receiving proper credit.

Williams and his associated company are seeking dismissal, arguing Hugo has not adequately identified the disputed musical works.

Hugo, who initially filed suit in January, wants the court to recognize his copyright ownership and order an accounting of earnings.

His attorneys have requested 21 days to amend the complaint if necessary.

Federal Judge André Birotte Jr. has not ruled on the dismissal request.