Madlib has taken legal action against his former manager, Eothen “Egon” Alapatt, alleging various forms of misconduct and financial exploitation. The lawsuit, filed in a Los Angeles court on October 31, coinciding with the fourth anniversary of MF Doom’s passing, sheds light on a tumultuous chapter in the musician’s career. Additionally, Doom’s widow, Jasmine Dumile Thompson, is embroiled in a separate legal battle with Egon, further complicating the situation.
Departure from Stones Throw Records
In 2010, both Madlib and Egon parted ways with Stones Throw Records, with Madlib subsequently hiring Egon as his manager. This move involved the establishment and operation of Madicine Show and Rappcats, two business entities crucial to Madlib’s music career. The lawsuit also includes Rappcats co-founder Jeffrey “Jeff Jank” Carlson as a defendant.
Uncovering Accounting Irregularities
Recent revelations by Madlib and his legal team point to accounting discrepancies within Madicine Show and Rappcats dating back to 2018. The absence of proper documentation for substantial payments to Egon, Jank, and others raises suspicions of financial impropriety, totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Allegations of Misconduct
Madlib’s lawsuit accuses Egon of inappropriately involving his record label, Now-Again Records, in the affairs of Madicine Show. Furthermore, Egon allegedly restricted Madlib’s access to various music platforms, including Ingrooves, Apple Music, Bandcamp, YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram, undermining the musician’s professional endeavors.
Legal Action and Remedies Sought
Seeking justice, Madlib aims to dissolve Madicine Show and Rappcats through legal intervention. He also demands punitive damages for Egon and Now-Again’s breach of fiduciary duty, along with a court declaration affirming his exclusive ownership rights to his music, career, trademarks, and likeness. A jury trial has been requested to address these grievances.
Response from Legal Representatives
Despite these serious allegations, Jeff Jank and Kenneth D. Freundlich, Egon’s attorney in the ongoing dispute with Jasmine Dumile Thompson, have refrained from commenting on the matter in response to inquiries from Pitchfork.
FAQs
Q: What prompted Madlib to file a lawsuit against Egon?
A: Madlib’s lawsuit alleges financial misconduct, mismanagement, and exploitation by Egon, leading to legal action to seek justice and protection of his interests.
Q: What remedies is Madlib seeking through the lawsuit?
A: Madlib is pursuing the dissolution of Madicine Show and Rappcats, punitive damages, and a court declaration affirming his ownership rights over his music and professional assets.
Q: How have Egon’s legal representatives responded to the allegations?
A: Egon’s legal team, including Jeff Jank and Kenneth D. Freundlich, has refrained from commenting on the matter, indicating a potentially contentious legal battle ahead.
Credit: pitchfork.com
