Richie Havens says Time-Warner doesn't have the freedom to make millions from his appearance in the movie "Woodstock."
He filed a $50 million lawsuit in federal court, claiming the media giant violated copyright and civil rights laws by not getting his permission, the New York Post reported Saturday.Havens opened the legendary music festival in 1969 with his guitar-strumming hit "Freedom." The movie and soundtrack of the concert went on to reap millions for Time-Warner.
Jay Gerber, a lawyer for Time-Warner, disputed the claims, saying the company has a contract signed by Havens. "Mr. Havens has been getting royalty checks for more than 24 years," he told the Post.
Havens' lawyer, Jacques Catafago, said the contract isn't valid.
Gerber said Havens' contract promised $20,000 and future royalties.