"Nattanzinho" and the Dispute at the INPI: How to Protect Your Stage Name and Avoid Future Problems

Do you have a stage name? Protect your identity before it's too late

If you work in art, music, or entertainment, your name is your greatest asset. And it's not just a matter of creativity — it also needs to be legally protected. Recently, singers Nattan and Natanzinho Lima began disputing the use of the name "Nattanzinho" before the INPI, Brazil's National Institute of Industrial Property (Instituto Nacional da Propriedade Industrial).

The dispute has not yet reached the courts. It is being handled administratively, as happens in cases of trademark conflict. But the risks are real and can directly impact any artist's career.

Understanding the case

Nattan filed a request to register the name "Nattanzinho" with the INPI in 2024.

Natanzinho Lima claimed to have already been using the name since 2017 and filed an opposition.

The INPI is currently reviewing the arguments and evidence presented by both parties.

This type of dispute is more common than it seems. When two people use similar names, the INPI must decide who holds the priority right to use it.

What are the risks of not registering your trademark?

If you haven't yet registered your stage name, it's worth paying attention to the risks:

You could be prevented from using the name publicly;

Your content could be removed from platforms like Spotify, YouTube, and Instagram;

Contracts with companies or events could be suspended;

You could lose years of brand-building work.

How can you protect yourself?

A few simple measures can help you avoid headaches down the road:

Register your stage name with the INPI as soon as possible;

Document your use of the name: release dates, posts, graphic materials, performances;

Avoid names that are too similar to those of already well-known artists;

Monitor the process at the INPI in case of opposition and prepare your defense with solid evidence.

Conclusion

A stage name is more than a creative choice — it's a commercial identity that needs protection. Trademark registration provides the security to continue your career without unpleasant surprises.

If you have questions about how to register or defend your trademark, consult a trusted lawyer with experience in intellectual property and entertainment law.