Rapper Ovrkast denies intent to imitate Outkast in naming dispute — Rolling Stone

California rapper and producer Ovrkast, whose real name is Silas Wilson, has responded to a lawsuit filed by hip-hop duo Outkast over alleged trademark infringement. In a statement to Rolling Stone, the artist stressed that he created his stage name independently of Outkast and had no intention of misleading listeners.

Ovrkast’s position

Wilson said that his professional name has its own meaning and is connected to his career achievements. According to him, he never sought to copy the name of the legendary group, pass himself off as it, or cause confusion among fans.

The artist also expressed respect for Outkast and their creative legacy. He said he hopes to find a solution that will allow him to continue his pursuit of leaving his own mark on the history of hip-hop.

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Allegations in the lawsuit

In a 31-page lawsuit filed by Outkast in Georgia, the duo accused Ovrkast of trademark infringement, unfair competition, and breach of contract. The plaintiffs claim that Wilson knowingly chose a stage name nearly identical to Outkast in order to benefit from the group’s popularity and reputation.

The lawsuit also states that the use of the name Ovrkast has allegedly already caused consumer confusion. As one piece of evidence, it cites Wilson’s 2025 interview with Rolling Stone, in which he said that as his popularity grew, people mistakenly understood the name Ovrkast as Outkast.

Dispute over changing the stage name

Outkast claims that Wilson refused to comply with an agreed arrangement to change his stage name to Overkxst and stop using Ovrkast on his website, social media, streaming services, advertising, newsletters, and merchandise. Wilson himself previously wrote on social network X that he had never signed any agreement, although he had tried to cooperate and consider various options. An Outkast representative did not respond to a request for comment.