Domain registrant said he bought the domain to create a tribute to the late singer.
The estate of musician Stevie Ray Vaughn has lost a cybersquatting claim it filed against StevieRayVaughan.com.
The domain owner said he acquired the domain in 2013 because he was a “a long-time blues aficionado.” He put up a tribute site that, at times, has been supported by advertising.
Steve Ray Vaughn’s estate argued that the small site is basically a cover to justify holding the domain name.
But panelist Gerald Levine noted:
The issue is not size of content but that the content is presented genuinely to honor the subject. There is no reason to discredit Respondent’s assertion he was “a long-time blues aficionado who desired to build a fan site in tribute to Stevie Ray Vaughan (SRV), who was held in highest esteem.”
Levine pointed out that the Uniform Domain Name Dispute Resolution Policy (UDRP) is designed to handle clearcut cybersquatting cases. He determined this was not one of those cases; perhaps the courts would be a better venue.
So, for now, StevieRayVaughan.com will remain in the hands of a professed fan rather than the estate.
Munck Wilson Mandala, LLP represented the estate.
Michael Anthony Castello says
I don’t agree with the decision. I use to own RollsRoyce.com because I loved the car and wanted to put up a site. That was 1996 and by 1997, I realized the internet had changed and the name should be with Rolls-Royce.. Same with Steelers.com, I gave it to the NFL without any compensation.
StevieRayVaughan.com Is an exact match to the person and I believe the family should own it.
StevieRayVaughanTribute.com would be more applicable. Court would be the next option for the Vaughan estate.
Tim says
You choosing to do something has no impact on what others should do, especially comparing sentiments 15 years apart.
The domain was registered in 2013, 23 years after the artist died (and 3 years after srvofficial.com was registered.) There is no indication the estate will actually do anything with the domain either.