Pharrell Williams Faces New Lawsuit From Chad Hugo Over Alleged $1 Million Royalty Dispute

Pharrell Williams has been sued by his longtime creative partner Chad Hugo in a new legal battle centered on alleged unpaid music royalties totaling nearly $1 million. The lawsuit marks another escalation in the ongoing dispute between the two producers, best known as the legendary hitmaking duo The Neptunes.

According to court filings, Chad Hugo claims he has not received full and accurate royalty payments from projects he co-created with Pharrell, including work connected to the group N.E.R.D. and their 2017 album No One Ever Really Dies. Hugo alleges that Pharrell failed to properly disclose financial records, withheld key accounting information, and collected income that should have been shared equally.

The lawsuit further claims that Hugo repeatedly requested transparency regarding profits from album sales, touring revenue, merchandise, and licensing deals. Despite these requests, he says he was provided with limited documentation, prompting legal action to recover what he believes he is owed.

This case follows an earlier dispute filed by Hugo in 2024, where he accused Pharrell of attempting to gain sole ownership of The Neptunes name and brand. That case reportedly intensified tensions between the former collaborators, whose partnership once dominated the global music industry.

Pharrell Williams has not commented publicly on the latest lawsuit. However, sources close to the situation suggest his legal team disputes the allegations and believes all financial matters have been handled appropriately.

The Neptunes played a defining role in shaping modern pop, hip hop, and R and B music, producing iconic hits for artists such as Jay Z, Snoop Dogg, Britney Spears, and Justin Timberlake. The legal conflict has left fans surprised, as the duo’s creative chemistry was once considered unbreakable.

As the case moves forward, the outcome could have lasting implications for ownership rights, royalties, and legacy in one of music’s most influential partnerships.