Administrators of Rick James’ estate have launched legal action to block a reunion by two members of the Mary Jane Girls, the girl group put together by the funk legend in the 80s.
Two of the group’s stars, Kimberly “Maxi” Wuletich and Cheryl Ann “Cheri” Bailey (who used the stage name Cheri Wells and is now Cheri Wells-Chez), recently reformed for a small tour, but executors of James’ estate say the singers did not ask for permission.
In a lawsuit, the estate administrators have asked a judge to ban the pair from performing under the name Mary Jane Girls, which they claim was owned by the late singer. They are also asking for all profits from the tour.
The band – which also included Joanne “JoJo” McDuffie, Candice “Candi” Ghant and Yvette “Corvette” Marine replacing Cheri after the first album – was formed by James and went on to have hits with “In My House,” “All Night Long” and “Candy Man.”
James died in 2004 at the age of 56.
