Neptunes’ Pharrell Williams and Chad Hugo in Royalty Dispute

Producer Chad Hugo is suing his former Neptunes partner Pharrell Williams, claiming he is owed $1 million in unpaid royalties for his work on N.E.R.D.’s 2017 album, No One Ever Really Dies.

The allegations:

• As per Digital Music News, Hugo claims Williams cut him out of their joint company.

• He alleges that Williams has refused to share crucial financial documents, leading to the unpaid royalties.

• This isn’t the production duo’s first legal beef – in 2024 Hugo accused Williams of trying to take sole ownership of the Neptunes’ trademark.

Track record:

• Neptunes is responsible for producing hits such as Nelly’s “Hot in Herre,” Gwen Stefani’s “Hollaback Girl,” Justin Timberlake’s “Rock Your Body,” and Snoop Dogg’s “Drop It Like It’s Hot.”

What they said:

• Brent Lehman, Chair, West Coast Litigation, Munck Wilson Mandala (to Digital Music News): “We filed this complaint on behalf of Mr. Hugo to protect his rights and set the record straight. After years of obfuscation by Pharrell and his team, Mr. Hugo had no choice but to seek substantial compensation and accountability in court. We look forward to presenting the evidence and obtaining the full relief the law provides.”