The renowned rapper, DJ, and record producer Madlib, born Otis Lee Jackson, Jr., has initiated legal action against his former manager Eothen “Egon” Alapatt, citing “persistent and pervasive mismanagement.”As reported by Variety, the lawsuit was filed in a Los Angeles court on October 31, alleging that Egon exploited his Now-Again record label as a conduit to divert funds meant for the artist, instead profiting personally from them.
The court filings reveal that Madlib engaged Egon to manage the “financial, legal, and business aspects” of his record venture, Rapp Catts. Additionally, Egon was tasked with overseeing the Quasimoto merchandise and other business dealings related to Madlib’s work. However, the lawsuit claims that Egon failed to fulfill these obligations adequately, stating:
“Not only was Egon not performing these duties, but he was also engaged in rank self-dealing, concealing information from and repeatedly breaching his duties to Madlib, and otherwise engaging in persistent and pervasive mismanagement.”
As of this article’s publication, Madlib boasts an impressive catalogue with 11 solo albums and 22 collaborative works. His collaborative partners include prominent figures in the music industry like Kanye West, Snoop Dogg, Tyler, the Creator, and Erykah Badu.
Madlib’s Musical Philosophy and Background
Originating from Oxnard, California, Madlib was born in October 1973. His musical legacy is rooted in a family background; his father was a jazz musician and singer, while his mother contributed as a songwriter and pianist. This rich musical environment set the stage for his future in the industry.
During his elementary school days, Jackson Jr. formed a pop-locking group named the ‘Lootpack’ with friends, adopting the name Madlib in high school. The group marked their entry into music with their debut album in 1999.
Madlib initially ventured into the hip-hop scene under the alter ego Quasimoto, releasing three acclaimed LPs in 2000, 2005, and 2013 alongside collaborator Lord Quas. This character is iconic for its distinctive high-pitched voice, an artistic choice by Madlib, as he once expressed in a 2005 interview with The New Yorker:
“When it comes to my own lyrics, I have to think about it more than Quas does. He brings ideas, and then I come with it.”
In 2001, Madlib expanded his horizons by experimenting with Jazz before returning to hip-hop to collaborate with influential artists like J Dilla and MF DOOM. In 2010, he created his label, Madlib Invazion, and announced a monthly music series called Madlib Medicine Show, which featured 13 albums released between 2010 and 2011.
Insights into the “Mismanagement”Lawsuit
The lawsuit outlines allegations against Egon, claiming he lacked transparency regarding financial records and operations. A commissioned forensic accounting indicated several inconsistencies concerning the finances of Madlib’s record store and other ventures overseen by Egon.
Moreover, the suit contends that Egon utilized his record label to divert profits “off the top of income” generated from the sales and distribution of Medicine Show’s music. This venture is co-owned by both artists, which adds complexity to the financial disputes. According to Rolling Stone:
“Egon has refused to account to Madlib regarding how he and Now-Again have been compensated in that connection or to proffer any written agreement between the two entities.”
Madlib further asserts that Egon has restricted his access to critical online platforms and accounts, including social media and Apple Music, prompting him to seek court intervention to dissolve any contractual relationships they had established.
At the time of writing, Egon has not released a public statement regarding the ongoing lawsuit.
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