Ke$ha, the uncredited and unpaid songstress who sang background vocals on Flo Rida’s #1 hit “Right Round” alleges that hit producer Dr. Luke drugged, raped her and repeatedly abused her for over 10 years. Moreover, Ke$ha claims she told Sony Records about it, but they refused to do anything. Taylor Swift donated $250,000 to Ke$ha to help with legal costs, since Sony and Dr. Luke are withholding payment of royalties to Ke$ha pending the outcome of the lawsuit which Ke$ha filed.
Several other stars including Lady Gaga, Miley Cyrus, & Kelly Clarkson, who have worked with Dr. Luke, tweeted support of Ke$ha. However, there has not been the public condemnation of Dr. Luke like Bill Cosby, who is accused, but not convicted, of similar acts against women.
The cliched “casting couch” is well known in the entertainment industry as a prerequisite to getting a break and achieving success. However, Dr. Luke vehemently denies Ke$ha’s accusations and filed a counter suit against her for defamation and breach of contract. Dr. Luke says that the only reason Ke$ha is making these “false claims” is because she wants to get out of her contract. Ke$ha tweeted that she refused an offer from Sony to release her from her contract if she would publically apologize to Dr. Luke. Ke$ha went on to say that Dr. Luke did drug and rape her and she would rather end her career than retract. I am following this lawsuit closely because it highlights a moral dilemma that many young women and men face. Would you stay quiet about sexual assault and drugging by a producer if you knew he would make you a star? Talk to me. Let me know what you think.
One Love,
Aria