It brings to mind the battle of David and Goliath.
Can a ‘90s punk/pop trio out of southern California named Supernova successfully fight television producer Mark Burnett? Burnett, of course, is of Survivor and The Apprentice fame, amongst other highly rated network television shows. Can the California trio outdo folks like Motley Crüe drummer Tommy Lee, former Metallica guitarist Jason Newsted, and former Guns N' Roses guitarist Gilby Clarke?
CBS has the second season in its RockStar series set to debut on July 5. This season is currently titled RockStar: Supernova. Instead of adding a singer to an existing band such as they did with INXS last season, a new band named “Supernova” with the musicians listed above will be created.
Therein lies the dilemma.
I recently wrote an article regarding the upcoming CBS show (and other summer TV shows) and then received a press release from the already-existing Supernova’s management representative, Greg Jacobs of 103 Degrees Management. From the release:
While the fight hasn't yet resulted in legal action, Supernova's attorneys have issued cease and desist letters to CBS and Burnett's production company, detailing the band's history and rights to its name.
The current Supernova has organized fans on a MySpace website, as well as spreading the news through various online venues such as Punknews. The band formed in 1989 and is perhaps best nationally known for their song “Chewbacca” in the Kevin Smith movie Clerks. The band is still together and has summer tour dates planned in California, Arizona and Nevada.
Will the corporate CBS/Mark Burnett machine squash the trio who obviously have been using the name for well over a decade? They have a tour; will they have their own name?
CBS has issued no public comment on the matter.
Article comments
1 - Greg Jacobs
Thanks Jackie. I appreciate your blog.
Please note: Supernova is from SOUTHERN California.
:)
GJ
2 - Jackie
D'oh, Greg! I'll get that fixed!
3 - Guppusmaximus
With a line-up including those has-beens I hope Supernova can win that case,Especially against that jackass,Mark Burnett! This should rate worse than that VH1 special with Sebastian Bach and Scott Ian. GO SUPERNOVA!!!