Defsounds

In Manhattan federal court yesterday, papers were filed against Taco Bell on behalf of 50 Cent which state "Without seeking or obtaining Jackson's authorization, defendant Taco Bell made him the star and focus of its nation-wide advertising campaign by using his name, persona and trademark to promote Taco Bell's business and products."

Last month, representatives for Taco Bell made what they call a "good faith, charitable offer to 50 Cent." They propositioned 50 to change his nickname to either 79, 89 or 99 Cent for a day while rapping his order at one of their restaurants. In return, the company would make a $10,000 donation to any charity the rapper chose. Their letter stated :

"Dear Mr. Jackson: We know that you adopted the name 50 Cent years ago as a metaphor for change. We at Taco Bell are also huge advocates of change. In fact, for just a few spare coins, we’re giving consumers more variety for less money with our new 79-89-99 Why Pay More value menu . . . So here’s our offer of change to you: For one day this summer, change your name either 79 Cent, 89 Cent or 99 Cent by showing up to one of our more than 5,600 locations nationwide and rapping your order in the drive thru with your new moniker."

This apparently didnt go over with 50 too well at all, as his representatives labeled the letter "a sleazy and ill-conceived publicity stunt by Taco Bell's president, Greg Creed."

The lawsuit also states that "Taco Bell made him the star and focus of its nationwide advertising campaign by using his name, persona and trademark to promote Taco Bell's business and products."

"When my legal team is finished with them, Taco Bell is going to have a new corporate slogan: 'We messed with the bull and got the horns," 50 said.