Oakland, February 29, 2016 – Two months before his death, Prince reportedly insisted that Apollonia, his Purple Rain co-star, continue performing and branding herself under her stage name, a revelation that’s now central to a legal battle over her trademark rights.
A Name Worth Protecting: Prince’s Final Wish
The singer allegedly wanted Apollonia to maintain financial security through her artistic identity.
- Apollonia, professionally known as patricia Kotero, is locked in a five-month dispute with Prince’s estate.
- The estate is attempting to cancel Apollonia’s trademarks and claim ownership of her stage name.
- A recent court filing details a conversation where Prince allegedly urged her to continue using her “Apollonia” and “Apollonia 6” trademarks.
- Prince reportedly believed maintaining thes trademarks would ensure Apollonia’s financial stability and creative freedom.
the dispute centers on whether Prince intended for his estate to control the “Apollonia” name,or if he wanted the artist to continue benefiting from it independently. According to a declaration filed in federal court, prince was “adamant” that Apollonia continue with her ventures, including musical performances and merchandising, to secure her future.
What rights do artists have over stage names established during collaborations with iconic figures like Prince? This question is at the heart of the legal clash between Apollonia and Paisley Park Enterprises,Prince’s estate.
The conversation that forms the basis of Apollonia’s argument took place backstage at Prince’s Piano and a Microphone concert in oakland on February 28, 2016. Susan Moonsie, a member of Apollonia 6, was also present during the exchange. “During our conversations that evening, Prince was adamant that we continue with our ventures such as musical performances,
But Not Register Trademarks: The Prince estate says of course Apollonia may use her name, but her registration for a trademark conflicts with the estate’s own for “Apollonia 6.”… https://t.co/nyiuQ7g8nw pic.twitter.com/ntyUVeaV9I
– Pro Music Rights (@ProMusicRights) September 20, 2025
Word is that Brenda Bennett and Susan Moonsie will be appearing on Apollonia’s podcast for an Apollonia 6 reunion! This should be fantastic! Its been a long time since anyone in the purple community heard from Susan 💜#Prince #Apollonia6 pic.twitter.com/2BXrrSUoqp
– Casey rain (@CaseyRain) January 30, 2023
