Vaughan tribute site saved in cybersquatting claim — Stevie Ray

Domain registrant stated he bought the domain to create a tribute to the late singer.

The estate of musician Stevie Ray Vaughn has lost a cybersquatting claim it filed against StevieRayVaughan.com.

The domain owner stated he purchased the domain in 2013 since he was a “a long-time blues aficionado.” He put up a tribute site that, at times, has been supported by advertising.

Steve Ray Vaughn’s estate argued that the modest site is basically a cover to justify holding the domain name.

But panelist Gerald Levine noted:

The issue is not size of content but that the content is presented genuinely to honor the subject. There is no reason to discredit Respondent’s assertion he was “a long-time blues aficionado who desired to build a fan site in tribute to Stevie Ray Vaughan (SRV), who was held in highest esteem.”

Levine pointed out that the Uniform Domain Name Dispute Resolution Policy (UDRP) is designed to handle clearcut cybersquatting cases. He determined this was not one of those cases; perhaps the courts would be a better venue.

So, for now, StevieRayVaughan.com will remain in the hands of a professed fan rather than the estate.

Munck Wilson Mandala, LLP represented the estate.