Kesha crying in court
Sony Music singer, Kesha, real
name, Kesha Sebert, burst into tears in Manhattan Supreme
Court today as judge, Shirley Kornreich, refused to let her
out of her music recording contract, after she alleged her
producer, Dr. Luke, real name, Luke Gottwald, raped her at age 18.
I disagree with the judge's
decision in part. The reason the judge did not want to
invalidate Kesha's contract is it would set a precedent that
would allow thousands of other entertainers and sports stars
to invalidate their recording contracts. This would lead to
any artist citing the case and breaking their contract,
after labels have invested millions in their careers.
However, the judge could have
placed an injunction and restraining order against Gottwald,
barring him from directly contacting her. It should be
noted, it is being stated that Sony Music offered to allow
Kesha to work with another producer, but she is worried the
company would not promote her music if she did so. Kesha
should have taken that offer, as that was the only way to
professionally cut ties with Dr. Luke.
Dr. Luke and Kesha
Many women hate reporting rape
to authorities, but it is necessary for a number of reasons.
We see that in this case. The judge has very little to work
with, legally known as "insufficient evidence." Kesha should
have went to the police after the alleged rape. A rape kit
could have provided evidence and would have been a very
useful tool in court today.
The judge would not have
invalidated her recording contract, because in the eyes of
the court Sony Music is not the offender. However, it would
have labeled Dr. Luke an offending party, if the rape kit
supported her claims, which would have meant a restraining
order and injunction could have been issued against him
personally. He would have also face criminal charges in a
separate legal action filed by prosecutors in criminal
court.
