Florida Senate takes on rip-off bands (AP)
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - The Florida Senate embraced the "truth in music" movement Friday with passage of legislation barring oldies acts using famous names to which they're not entitled. The bill now awaiting House approval would prohibit a person from advertising or holding a live performance using such a name under false pretenses.
Bands with famous names performing with at least one original member who has the legal right would be allowed. The measure also would still allow people who own a federal service mark or trademark to use the name of a band. For years, music legends from the Coasters to the Shirelles to the Drifters have complained about unauthorized impostors. Nine states have either passed or will soon pass laws to try to make sure that if you go to see The Pretenders, you're not getting mere pretenders. Salute-to or tribute bands would be OK, too, so Elvis impersonators need not worry. Violating the law would be a misdemeanor.
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