Pharrell Williams Sues Diageo for $5 Million

Pharrell Williams has sued marketing partner Diageo North America for $5 million in a New York City federal court, claiming that the spirits giant has failed to distribute the rapper's "Qream with a Q" (or simply "Qream") alcoholic beverage to the terms of their contract.

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According to papers obtained by Allhiphop.com, the lawsuit alleges that in July 2012, Diageo abruptly told Williams that it would discontinue Qream distribution after two years of marketing the brand. The lawsuit reads, per Allhiphop.com, that Williams "turned away other concrete opportunities to collaborate with other alcoholic beverage distributors on a partnership, in favor of proceeding with Diageo."

In an email sent to Adweek, a Diageo spokesperson wrote, "It is unfortunate that the plaintiffs chose to bring this lawsuit, as Diageo believes the plaintiffs' claims lack merit. QREAM Creme Liqueur continues to be available for sale as one of the many new-to-world brands originating from Diageo's innovation pipeline."

Qream is a high-end liquor that's been marketed to women.