Rap star Jay-Z sues children's bookstore in Sydney

Theo Wargo / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / AFP

Jay-Z has decided to take legal action against a children's book store in Sydney, for using his image and lyrics.

According to media reports, the row centres on a book called 'A B to Jay-Z', which re-jigs a line from the rapper's chart-topping hit 99 Problems.

The reworked line reads: "If you're having alphabet problems I feel bad for your son, I got 99 problems but my ABCs ain't one."

What's more, the book features the 49-year-old rapper's likeness, as well as other well-known hip-hop stars like Eminem and the Notorious BIG.

Lawyers acting on behalf of Jay have sent several cease-and-desist letters to the store over the last two years, and they have described the product as a "deliberate and knowing attempt to trade off the reputation and goodwill" of Jay's image.

The legal team also say that the store made a "false and misleading representation" suggesting that Jay had approved of the book.

In response to the dispute, Jessica Chiha, the company's owner, told the New York Post newspaper's Page Six column: "We are unbelievably disappointed to find ourselves caught in a legal battle with someone whose music we love and adore.

"We refer to a whole host of hip-hop artists in the books, but to have someone like Jay-Z file legal proceedings is daunting beyond belief."

More from Entertainment

Coming Up on Dubai Eye

  • Afternoons with Helen Farmer

    1:00pm - 4:00pm

    Every weekday afternoon, Helen Farmer will help you to navigate the highs and lows of life in the UAE. Stay up to date with what’s happening and where to go.

  • The Debrief

    4:00pm - 7:00pm

    Join Dane & Lucy on Dubai Eye 103.8 for The Debrief from 4pm to 7pm, the perfect way to unwind after a busy day at the office.

BUSINESS BREAKFAST LATEST

On Dubai Eye

  • Is There Sufficient House Supply In UAE

    Dubai’s current population is more than double compared to almost twenty years ago, which now stands at 3.7 million. Lots of families are also moving to the UAE now. So what does it mean for the property market?

  • Noon's First Female Delivery Driver

    Glory Ehirim Nkiruka is Noon’s first ever female delivery driver. In her first ever interview, she explained why she loves her job, despite the heat!