Singer Jason Derulo is embroiled in legal troubles, with former protégé Emaza Gibson filing a lawsuit against him in the Los Angeles County Superior Court. Gibson accuses Derulo of sexual coercion and alleges that her career was negatively impacted due to her refusal of his advances.
After signing with Derulo’s label Future History in 2021, Gibson initially viewed the opportunity as a stepping stone to her solo career. However, she soon alleges facing uncomfortable advances and situations. Sharing her experience with NBC News, Gibson expressed her emotional trauma, saying, “I’m traumatized. I’ve dealt with inhumane work situations… I’m at this point where I’m back to zero and have nothing.”
The lawsuit emphasizes that Gibson’s contract was suddenly terminated after rejecting Derulo’s advances. More disturbingly, she recalls a conversation where Derulo mentioned a Haitian phrase that she later found referred to questionable practices.
Future History and Atlantic Records Entangled in Lawsuit
The lawsuit does not solely target Derulo. Gibson asserts that during a crucial meeting with Atlantic Records, meant to promote her music, Derulo introduced another woman, Rosa. This move left Gibson perplexed, as she felt Rosa’s introduction was portrayed as a mark of professional achievement.
Post this meeting, a disagreement ensued between Gibson and Derulo’s manager, Frank Harris, resulting in Derulo cutting off all communication with Gibson. The lawsuit claims that Derulo Future History and Atlantic Records played a part in the alleged misconduct.
Gibson’s lawsuit encompasses claims ranging from unpaid wages and loss of earnings to emotional distress damages. As of now, Jason Derulo’s team has yet to release a statement regarding the allegations.