VILLAGE PEOPLE - VILLAGE PEOPLE CAN CONTINUE PERFORMING, DESPITE LAWSUIT

VILLAGE PEOPLE CAN CONTINUE PERFORMING, DESPITE LAWSUIT

Revamped disco group the VILLAGE PEOPLE have been granted permission by a California judge to continue performing as they fight a lawsuit brought against them by one of the band's founding members.
Victor Willis, who was the police officer in the original line-up before leaving in 1983, filed suit this month (Feb09) against the band's promoter Sixuvus Ltd, the William Morris Agency, Can't Stop Productions and a number of venues where the group has performed, alleging his voice and picture are still being used to promote the band.
He is seeking at least $1 million (£697,300) in damages and a judge's order to prevent the camp stars using his likeness or recordings in the future.
However, the legal action will not put a stop to the Village People's comeback - according to a spokesperson for the group and its promoters, a San Diego judge recently granted a preliminary injunction in the suit as court officials determine the merit of the case, reports the New York Times.