By Gabriella Steffenberg
It’s been a tough week for pop star Kesha. On Friday, Feb. 19, a New York court judge denied the singer of an injunction in her ongoing legal battle with Dr. Luke/Sony Music. This injunction would have allowed her to record new music outside of her record label, and with producer Dr. Luke.
Originally filed in Oct. 2014, Kesha’s lawsuit against Dr. Luke/Sony Music seeks to void her contracts with the producer and the label, allowing her to work with other labels, producers, and receive damages. The lawsuit states that in the past 10 years, Dr. Luke has “sexually, physically, verbally, and emotionally abused Ms. Sebert to the point where Ms. Sebert nearly lost her life,” and that this was happening under Dr. Luke being able to “maintain control over her life and career.” For more information on the lawsuit and what’s coming next, head to Rolling Stone’s for in-depth coverage of the court battle.
Since the injunction denial, numerous women in the industry have come forward showing their support. Taylor Swift donated $250,000 to Kesha in order to “help with any of her financial needs during this trying time,” as well as musicians Lady Gaga, Lorde, Ariana Grande, Miley Cyrus, Demi Lovato, Halsley, Lily Allen, Alessia Cara, Bea Miller, Kelly Clarkson, Fiona Apple, Grimes, JoJo, Janelle Monáe, and many more writing on social media expressing their love and support – #FreeKesha has been trending on Twitter. Gaga tweeted, “There are people all over the world who love you @KeshaRose. And I can truly say I am in awe of your bravery.” Lorde stated, “standing with @KeshaRose through this traumatic, deeply unfair time. Send good vibes her way everyone.”
Male musicians including Jack Antonoff (of Bleachers and fun.), Troy Sivan, Wale, and Adam Lambert have also shown their love for Kesha, with Antonoff tweeting, “Don’t know what the legal specifics are, but if you want to make something together & then leak it for everyone I’m around… Or just make something and wait on it till that creep can’t block you anymore. Standing offer…” Antonoff’s partner, actress, writer, and activist Lena Dunham penned an essay on Lenny on Feb. 23 titled, “Why Kesha’s Case is About More than Kesha,” expressing her deep frustration with the lack of protection that the legal system grants to women in abusive relationships and partnerships. Read the full feature here.
While the verdict for the lawsuit is far from over, Kesha expressed her feelings to her fans and supporters in her first Instagram post since the court date, writing, “I am beyond words in gratitude. Thank you is not enough but it is all I have. A million times over and forever thank you. The support I have received has left my face swollen from tears. I love you all so much.” Kesha ended her post with the intent of a larger statement regarding her tough legal battle to be soon released.
It’s beautiful seeing people, especially women, in the music industry banding together to support a fellow artist during such a turbulent time. Let’s hope that the legal system does not fail to protect yet another woman in need. Thank you for your bravery, Kesha.
