Sony Music is expected to end its relationship with controversial music producer Dr. Luke a hear ahead of his contract’s end, according to a report from The Wrap.
The deal has become a public relations problem for the label since pop star Keshe’s sexual and emotional abuse allegations against Luke have resulted in a very public court battle, with support from influential artists like Adele, Lady Gaga, Taylor Swift backing their fellow artist. Although she stresses she does not know any of the particulars of Kesha’s case, from her own experience, Kelly has called Luke a liar and “not a good person.”
“There is no contest. Kesha has no case in regards to her contract but they can’t afford the Adeles of the world out in the streets calling the label unsupportive,” a source told TheWrap. “The fact that this hasn’t already been taken care of with Luke is confusing, especially for people in the building.”
“Somebody has been convicted via Twitter,” a second individual close to the decision said of Luke and the backlash over unsubstantiated accusations. “No court has convicted this person, so there may not be any legal basis to terminate an agreement. It would have to be mutual.”
Luke’s deal has been widely reported to pay him $60 million over its duration, although that number may be inflated. After 5 years, Luke’s The biggest star on Kemosabe, Luke’s Sony imprint, is Kesha, who has not released new music since 2012. Rapper Juicy J, and pop star Becky G are also on the roster.
Read more at The Wrap
UPDATE: An attorney for Dr. Luke has released a statement refuting The Wrap’s sources:
“This is not true. Luke has an excellent relationship with Sony. His representatives are in regular contact with executives at the highest levels at Sony and this has never come up.”
