World IP Day Celebration: Empowering Creators Through Trademarks and Brand Protection
On World Intellectual Property Day, the AI Music Tech Tradeshow and Conference proudly collaborated with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and RPB Law Firm to host a dynamic and insightful online workshop on trademarks in music, branding, and business growth on April 25, 2025.
Led by award-winning entertainment and intellectual property attorney Rebecca P. Beliard, the workshop attracted a diverse group of musicians, entrepreneurs, students, and creatives. Drawing on her rich industry experience with Amazon Music, Sony, and CBS, Rebecca walked participants through the fundamentals of trademark protection, reinforcing the idea that artists are not just creatives—they are brands. From stage names and slogans to logos and fan communities, nearly every part of a creator’s identity can and should be protected as intellectual property.
Beyoncé, Rihanna, Swift & Barbie: Branding Lessons from the Best
One of the most engaging parts of the workshop was the deep dive into how today’s top artists use trademarks to build cultural empires. Beyoncé, for example, owns, co-owns or has applied for registration over 50 trademarks, including her name, nonprofit BeyGOOD, and projects like Cowboy Carter. Rihanna has established a global brand around “Fenty,” and has applied for registration for trademarks across beauty, skincare, lingerie, and even children’s fashion. Taylor Swift stands out with more than 170 active or pending trademark applications—including her name, key lyrics, and the fan-favorite term “Swifties.”
Rebecca also broke down the business model behind many major brands, highlighting how they leverage their trademarks not just to promote their companies, but also to generate significant revenue. While these agreements are typically confidential, she explained that most brand partnerships involve paying royalties and licensing fees. She pointed to the Barbie movie phenomenon as a prime example, where trademark and brand licensing likely played a central role. Companies like Krispy Kreme, Crocs, and Cold Stone Creamery didn’t just join in co-branded marketing campaigns — they most likely paid to license Barbie’s intellectual property. This example underscored how IP can drive both commercial success and cultural relevance at the same time.
Why Trademarks Matter in Today’s Creative Economy
Participants left the workshop clearly understanding that trademarks are not optional—they are essential. Rebecca emphasized that registering a trademark gives creators exclusive rights to use, license, and protect their brand. She also addressed common misconceptions, such as the belief that forming an LLC or owning a domain name automatically provides trademark protection. That’s not the case—formal registration is key, especially in markets where your audience lives and your brand operates.
This celebration of World IP Day aligned perfectly with the mission of the AI Music Tech Tradeshow and Conference: to equip creators with the legal tools, strategic knowledge, and innovative mindset they need to thrive in a fast-changing digital and AI-driven creative landscape. As creativity continues to intersect with commerce and technology, IP awareness will only become more critical.
Want to learn how to protect your intellectual property?
Connect with Rebecca of RPB Law, PLLC — a trusted partner of the Music Tech Tradeshow and Conference— and schedule a complimentary consultation exclusively for our community members.
