Dr. Luke Claims He Is Owed $1.3 Million in Royalties from Kesha

Photo Credit: Sharon Alagna

The lawsuit and legal battle between Kesha and her former producer, Dr. Luke, has been one that has seen many twists and turns. The two years since the initial claims have invited multitude of various lawsuits between the two that span across a number of states, as well as a number of ill-tempered comments and actions between the two. The most recent being a claim by Dr. Luke that Kesha accused him of raping another artist via a text conversation with Lady Gaga. These claims were found to be baseless and false, as reported by Stereogum. A lawsuit that originated from claims of sexual assault on Kesha by the producer has now taken yet another turn. The former has now made counterclaim that Kesha is in debt to him for a total of $1.3 million in royalties.

According to Stereogum, Dr. Luke alleges that while Kesha has been receiving her royalties, “Kesha baselessly refuses to pay Plaintiffs the much larger sums she owes them.” The way that the producer’s contract is set up he is supposed to receive 10% for the use Kesha’s name, likeness and merchandising.

There is also a claim, by the lawyers of Dr. Luke, that the pop artist’s allegations toward him for hindering the recording process to new music are false.

Defendant also would have this Court – and the press and public – believe that Gottwald has interfered with her recording process and has prevented her from recording new music. Nothing could be further from the truth. As Kesha’s proposed counterclaim concedes, she is recording in the studio with producers of her choosing and preparation is underway for the release of her next album. Gottwald has not interfered in any way with her recording process; and there is no factual allegation (as opposed to bare conclusion) to the contrary in Kesha’s proposed pleading. The fact that Gottwald never forfeited his rights as CEO of Kemosabe Records does not – and cannot – give rise to any new counterclaim.