The music industry is regularly seen as cutthroat and unforgiving, and this case lends credence to that belief. A Florida promoter is suing a prominent rapper as well as several other persons associated with the act including another promoter, a producer and a booking agent. The promoter has claimed fraud and breach of contract, as well as several other charges, according to court records.
Rapper Gucci Mane is a well-known personality in the hip hop scene, so promoter Stephen Gold was eager to work with him. Unfortunately, two shows scheduled in 2009 failed to happen as Mane was unable to perform due to travel restrictions placed on him as part of his probation. Gold claims that he lost nearly $500,000 in revenue when the rapper failed to perform.
He is suing So Icey Entertainment, booking agent Mizay Entertainment and a management company, as well as several individuals associated with the booking process. He claims they, along with Mane, stand in breach of contract because they knew in advance the rapper would be unable to make the performances but did not inform Gold. Gold is seeking nearly $50,000 in damages for fraud, theft and breach of contract in this case. A court date has not yet been set.
Regardless what business an individual might pursue, Florida business law makes clear that a contract must be honored. Breach of contract is therefore a very serious charge to levy against an organization. If a business owner feels a contract has been violated, it may be beneficial for that owner to familiarize him or herself with local and state laws associated with business practice to determine their next steps.
Source: pollstar.com, Gucci Mane Sued For Fraud, Deborah Speer, Sept. 13, 2013