J. Cole Video Leads To Lawsuit

RCA Records is facing a lawsuit over artwork used in the video for Elle Varner and J.Cole’s single “I Only Wanna Give It To You.” Artist Maya Hayuk's painting, "Sunshine," is used in the video, reportedly without Hayuk's permission.

The Brooklyn-based artist filed the lawsuit in United States District Court for Massachusetts last week. According to the filing, Hayuk's piece was originally created for the group Rye Rye.

“In or around October 2011, RCA & Sony produced or otherwise commissioned the video,” the lawsuit reads. “This video includes numerous scenes that incorporate videographic reproductions of Hayuk’s 'Sunshine.' Indeed, Hayuk’s original artwork is featured prominently in the video and adds greatly to its mise-en-scéne. Hayuk did not authorize the use of 'Sunshine' in the video. Neither RCA nor Sony approached Hayuk seeking such authorization.” Hayuk claims that both RCA and Sony are illegally profiting off of her work and she’s suing for damages and an injunction to prevent the clip from being played.