Clemmons: 'Precious Moments' stole idea

FRANKLIN, Tenn., Sept. 20 (UPI) -- Country music singer-songwriter Shannon Clemmons is suing Precious Moments Inc., claiming the U.S. collectibles company stole her idea for a product line.

Clemmons, who previously opened for country star Hank Williams Jr., alleges in her federal court lawsuit that Precious Moments and an agent used her idea for a Christian characters line without giving her credit, The (Nashville) Tennessean reported Saturday.

Clemmons alleges she came up with the idea for the Gracie Girls line in 2005 and even wrote songs to pair with the collectibles oriented toward girls ages 2 to 10.

Her lawsuit alleges that after she pitched the concept to agent Ron Smith of Ron Smith Management Partners LLC, Smith claimed the Christian retail market was struggling.

Clemmons said months later in August 2007, she saw allegedly similar designs in the Precious Girls Club from Precious Moments.

The country singer alleges copyright infringement and breach of contract. Both Smith and Precious Moments officials have denied her allegations, The Tennessean said.