In the continuing saga of musicians complaining about others stealing their work or not getting paid enough for their work and then ripping off hard-working photographers, the rapper T.I. has joined the pack. T.I., most famous for hits "Rubberband Man" and "Whatever You Like" has stolen a Trinidadian photographer's work for use in an invitation to a party he's hosting. The photographer has called him out!

In 2008, T.I. was quoted saying:

Don’t ruin the event. Wait 'til the cake comes out the kitchen before you eat it. That’s like a kid who sees his toys before Christmas; it takes away from me and I think it takes away from the fans as well. When it’s time, I’mma give it to you. They leaked my record with me and The Dream too. Leakage is never a problem I have had. I’m not used to it.

However, he doesn't seem to have a problem stealing a different type of artist's work: photographers. Have a look at the photographer's post regarding the alleged theft.

T.I. eventually responded to the matter, seemingly justifying his actions by virtue of the specific use in question:

Obviously & commendably @lauraferreirastudios had the best & most impressively appropriate images that relate to the theme of the party, which lead to the planners using the images. Which in itself is them paying homage to your work. Let’s be clear guys. ITS A PARTY INVITE!!!!! Not album or even single artwork, not tee shirts we plan to sell, not framed & sold for our benefit…ITS A PARTY INVITATION GUYS!!!! I’ve seen world famous photos of worldly iconic figures used to invite people to parties all the time & with the photographs photoshopped & altered which takes away from the integrity of the art.

This seems to be an ongoing trend in the music industry in which we've seen a few high-profile musicians steal photographers' work or demand outrageous waivers be signed: Foo Fighters, Taylor Swift, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, Three Days Grace, and now, T.I. What are your thoughts on the situation?

[via digitalmusiconline]