Those artists included Britney Spears, former "American Idol" winner Ruben Studdard and (female rapper) Da Brat.

If you're curious: A Da Brat music video featured a beach ball with the Vuitton logos on it . . . Ruben used the trademark in his album's artwork . . . and Britney drove a car with symbols associated with Louis Vuitton on the dashboard.

In a statement, Louis Vuitton said, quote, "We believe the terms of this agreement will provide strong protection to our brand worldwide." But are they protecting their trademarks . . . or just trying not to be associated with artists who AREN'T HOT???

It's hard to imagine Louis Vuitton going after artists like Rihanna, Mariah Carey or even a rapper like Kanye West for "pimping" their styles.

Although Cristal champagne did it. Remember a few years ago, when Cristal renounced their popularity in hip-hop circles . . . causing several rappers to BOYCOTT Cristal???