Johnny Cash’s estate has filed a lawsuit against Coca-Cola, claiming the company illegally mimicked the late singer’s voice in a recent advertisement.
The complaint was filed on November 25 in Nashville under Tennessee’s ELVIS Act, which protects a person’s voice from non-consensual exploitation. The estate alleges that a Coca-Cola jingle, performed by tribute artist Shawn Barker, sounds “remarkably” like Cash and has aired during college football games since August.
The estate emphasised that while it has previously licensed Cash’s music for adverts, Coca-Cola “never even bothered to ask” for permission. Lawyer Tim Warnock said, “Stealing the voice of an artist is theft of his integrity, identity and humanity. This lawsuit protects Johnny Cash’s voice and sends a message for all artists.”
The estate is seeking a court injunction to remove the ad, financial compensation and damages under federal false endorsement law and Tennessee consumer protection statutes.
Coca-Cola did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Barker’s team, however, said they were “thrilled” to perform, with manager Joey Waterman noting Barker has toured globally for over 20 years sharing Cash’s music.
