The estate of photographer Chi Modu filed a lawsuit on Friday (June 24) against Universal Music Group (UMG) for the usage of an unlicensed photo of Tupac on the UMG website titled Best Tupac Songs 26 Essential Tracks. The photo in question is credited to Universal Music Group archives.

Modu's estate also claims that UMG removed the late Hip-Hop photographer's copyright information from the photo prior to adding it to the website, which published originally on June 16, 2019.

"Chi Modu's photography captured moments of profundity and grace" said Scott Burroughs, an attorney for the estate. "While it does not surprise me that it would appeal to Universal, we are disappointed that the company did not reach out to the Estate to procure a license before exploiting Mr. Modu's work on its commercial website. We look forward to addressing this infringement in court."

Modu's estate reportedly sent a cease and desist to UMG in February, with no response, and is seeking an award of all profits and fees as well as the removal of the photograph. Modu has also captured popular images of The Notorious B.I.G., LL COOL J, Mary J. Blige, Snoop Dogg and NWA.