Bob Marley's brother challenges law suit against Marley family

Richard Booker the half-brother of reggae legend Bob Marley says he will fight a lawsuit that seeks to stop him from using Marley's name and image without official authorization to promote an annual Miami music festival and other ventures according to the Canadian Press.

Richard Booker, whose mother Cedella Booker was also Marley's, said an internal family dispute should not have escalated into a legal battle. The lawsuit was filed last week on behalf of a Bahamian company that represents Marley's widow, Rita, and nine of the late superstar's children.

The lawsuit was filed in Miami federal court, asking a judge to stop Booker from using Marley's name, image, lyrics and other intellectual property unless he reaches a licensing agreement to do so with the family company.

In his statement, Booker says their mother participated in many of these businesses before she died in 2008. He suggested that the Marley family is only now challenging his use of the name in order to get a cut of his profits.

It further states that The Marley lawsuit contends the family has long opposed Booker's use of the name but has been unable to negotiate a licensing deal.

The family, according to their statement, is "hopeful that they will be able to amicably resolve their dispute with Mr. Booker and remain ready and willing to do so."

Up to Music News time the Marley family has not responded to the Canadian Press report.