No Doubt sues Activision over Band Hero avatar use

The gang from No Doubt has its legal briefs in a twist over Activision's Band Hero, since you can play the game as the band and let them perform any of several dozen songs that aren't related to the ska-pop group. Wait, these are the same folks who had a big hit by covering Talk Talk's It's My Life, right?

Band manager Jim Guerinot tells Rolling Stone that No Doubt was "mortified" to learn not only could their avatars sing other songs, but individual group members could perform other songs solo.

"They're just like, 'What? We didn't sign up for this,'" he says. The answer? A lawsuit alleging fraudulent inducement and breach of contract.

"Without the band’s knowledge or approval Activision turned the group into virtual karaoke players by having them perform over 60 additional songs by other musical groups," a statement read. "... Despite repeated requests by the band that Activision honor its contract Activision has refused claiming the necessary fix would be too expensive.” 

Activision isn't backing down, saying in a statement that the company "believes it is within its legal rights with respect to the use and portrayal of the band members in the game and that this lawsuit is without merit." 

We wonder how long it will take the band to realize that even if there was a breach of contract, throwing a hissy fit and suing only makes them look bad. If we want to make Gwen Stefani sing Styx's Mr. Roboto, just sit back and enjoy the ride.

[Photo: Getty Images]

Source