Filing in U.S. District Court in Boston Seeks to Halt Unauthorized Use as The Platters Enter New Phase of Recording, Touring, and Cultural Reintroduction

BOSTON, April 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Herb Reed Enterprises, LLC ("HRE"), the company founded by The Platters' creator Herb Reed to manage and protect the group's legacy, has filed a federal action in the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts at the John Joseph Moakley U.S. Courthouse against Good Time Distribution, LLC, Good Time Entertainment, LLC, and Paul Steele.

The action seeks to halt the unauthorized use of The Platters' name in connection with recordings and digital distribution, including the promotion and sale of recordings falsely represented as authentic Platters' performances.

The filing comes at a time of significant contemporary resurgence for The Platters, whose recordings have recently been featured across major entertainment platforms, including projects associated with the Marvel Cinematic Universe® (MCU), Disney+®, Sony®, and leading streaming services such as Netflix and Amazon Prime, introducing the group's music to new global audiences.

The filing was announced by Frederick J. Balboni, Jr., Herb Reed's direct successor to ownership of The Platters and the current President and CEO of Herb Reed Enterprises, LLC.

"This action is about clarity and integrity," said Balboni. "The Platters are not simply part of music history — they are an active and evolving presence in today's cultural landscape. When audiences encounter that name, they deserve to know they are experiencing the authentic continuation of that legacy."

The complaint alleges trademark infringement, counterfeiting, false designation of origin, and unfair competition arising from the defendants' unauthorized use of The Platters name across digital platforms.

This action continues long-standing enforcement efforts undertaken by Herb Reed and Herb Reed Enterprises to protect the integrity of The Platters' name and prevent consumer confusion, as courts have consistently affirmed the rights associated with the authentic Platters legacy.

Founded in 1953, The Platters became one of the most successful vocal groups in American music history, with enduring hits including Only You, The Great Pretender, My Prayer, and Smoke Gets In Your Eyes. Today, through Herb Reed Enterprises, the group continues to perform, record, and expand its legacy for contemporary audiences.

The filing comes as The Platters prepare to release With Love, The Platters, a contemporary recording project that pairs timeless repertoire with modern production and the group's signature harmonic identity.

"We are not preserving something from the past," Balboni added. "We are continuing it."

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SOURCE Herb Reed Enterprises, LLC