Levon Helm Studios filed a federal lawsuit on Monday, August 10, against Amy Helm, singer-songwriter and daughter of late Band member Levon Helm, alleging self-dealing, trademark infringement, and damages totaling $2 million, according to a 61-page complaint.
The studio claims Helm charged $400,000 to cover personal expenses and withdrew an additional $200,000 from the Levon Helm Estate, including from an entity distributing royalties from Levon's final albums. According to the suit, these actions prevented the Estate from compensating those who worked on the projects. The complaint also alleges Helm created her own trademark, Helm Family Midnight Ramble, based on a concert series her father established at the studio, and diverted the series' revenue into her own company.
The lawsuit represents an escalation of tensions that began earlier in the year between Helm and other stakeholders, including her stepmother Sandra Helm and studio shareholders Brian Parillo and Barbara O'Brien. In May, the three parties removed Amy Helm as president of the studio, citing alleged mismanagement. Amy Helm subsequently accused Parillo of financial exploitation and elder abuse of Sandra in a June court filing. Parillo has denied the charges.
Police were called to the studio in Woodstock following an alleged physical dispute between Parillo and Amy Helm after her removal, though no charges were filed. A representative for Amy Helm declined to comment on the lawsuit. Levon Helm Studios representatives did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
