In a surprising turn of events, the Los Angeles-based luxury fashion house Chrome Hearts LLC has dropped its trademark infringement lawsuit against rock legend Neil Young and his backing band, known as the chrome hearts. The legal dispute, which began last September, had drawn significant attention due to the stark contrast between the high-priced fashion brand—famous for its $300 T-shirts and five-figure jewelry—and the veteran musician’s latest musical project.
Chrome Hearts, which has operated since 1988 and held the rights to its name since 1991, had alleged in its initial complaint that the band’s name caused confusion among consumers, suggesting that vendors had mistakenly assumed a connection between the two entities. The brand also took issue with various promotional materials associated with the group, which features Micah Nelson, Corey McCormick, Anthony Logerfo, and Spooner Oldham.
The legal challenge faced immediate pushback from music historians and fans, who pointed out that the term “chrome heart” appeared in the Stills-Young Band’s 1976 track “Long May You Run,” predating the fashion brand’s trademark by 15 years. While it remains unclear whether the case concluded through a formal settlement or a unilateral decision by the brand to withdraw, the outcome is a clear victory for the band.
The group, seemingly unfazed by the litigation, has continued to move forward with its creative output. Neil Young recently announced via his Archives site that the band has completed work on a new studio album titled Second Song, recorded at the legendary Shangri-La studio in Malibu. Additionally, fans can look forward to the release of the band’s first live album, As Time Explodes, which is slated to hit shelves at the end of May.
