In an impressive move, the legendary hip-hop producer Madlib has filed a lawsuit against his former manager Eothen “Egon” Alapattaccusing him of “pervasive mismanagement” and financial self-serving. The lawsuit, reported by Bulletin board and filed Oct. 31 in Los Angeles, describes serious allegations that Alapatt took advantage of his managerial role to siphon off profits from Madlib's music and merchandise businesses. This legal action comes on the heels of Alapatt's previous legal troubles, including a lawsuit from the estate of Madlib collaborator MF DOOM, who accused him of theft of personal property.
The complaint states that Alapatt began managing Madlib's business affairs around 2010, during a critical phase when the producer sought independence from Stones Throw Records. He claims Alapatt was fired from his position at the label shortly thereafter. Madlib's legal team alleges that Alapatt failed to properly manage the two entities set up for Madlib—”Medicine Report“for music and”Rapp Cats” for commodities—leading to significant financial irregularities. Madlib reportedly only revealed the extent of these issues in April 2023 through forensic accounting, which revealed a lack of documentation for various expenses, as well as unauthorized fees received by Alapatt.
The suit calls for a judicial dissolution of both companies and a thorough accounting of their finances, highlighting the breakdown of trust between Madlib and Alapatt. He accuses Alapatt of blocking Madlib from critical accounts related to his work, including those related to his iconic alter-ego, Quasimoto. As Madlib tries to regain control of his business, the case raises important questions about accountability and transparency in artist management.
