Madlib Takes Legal Action Against Former Manager Eothen “Egon” Alapatt for Mismanagement

In a striking move, legendary hip-hop producer Madlib has filed a lawsuit against his former manager Eothen “Egon” Alapatt, accusing him of “pervasive mismanagement” and financial self-dealing. The lawsuit, reported by Billboard and filed on October 31 in Los Angeles, outlines serious allegations that Alapatt exploited his managerial role to siphon profits from Madlib’s music and merchandise businesses. This legal action comes on the heels of Alapatt’s prior legal troubles, including a lawsuit from the estate of Madlib’s collaborator MF DOOM, who accused him of stealing personal property.

The complaint details that Alapatt began managing Madlib’s business affairs around 2010, during a critical phase when the producer sought independence from Stones Throw Records. It alleges that Alapatt was dismissed from his position at the label shortly thereafter. Madlib’s legal team claims that Alapatt failed to properly manage the two entities established for Madlib—“Madicine Show” for music and “Rapp Cats” for merchandise—leading to significant financial irregularities. Madlib reportedly only uncovered 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 taken by Alapatt.

The lawsuit demands a judicial dissolution of both companies and a thorough accounting of their finances, highlighting a breakdown of trust between Madlib and Alapatt. It accuses Alapatt of locking Madlib out of crucial accounts related to his work, including those associated with his iconic alter-ego, Quasimoto. As Madlib seeks to reclaim control over his business, the case raises significant questions about accountability and transparency in artist management.