EVEN Hit with Lawsuit Over Discrimination and Labor Violation Claims

Direct-to-consumer superfan platform EVEN has been hit with a lawsuit by former employee Damien “DDot” Washington. As per Digital Music News, the New York City-filed federal lawsuit alleges “specific instances of conspiracy to commit violence against industry competitors, fraudulent data, unethical business practices, and more.”

The allegations:

• DDot is accusing EVEN and its CEO, Enrique “Mag” Rodriguez, of discrimination, retaliation, wage violations, and wrongful termination.

• He alleges he was discriminated against because of his race and gender and denied a promotion, as per The Jasmine Brand.

• He claims to have been misclassified as an independent contractor, even though he worked full time (70+ hour weeks), depriving him of overtime pay, benefits and more.

• Upon raising his concerns, he claims he was stripped of duties and, ultimately, fired.

Separate suit:

• DDot features as a co-defendant in a separate lawsuit filed against EVEN by Babygrande Records.

• As per Digital Music News, he says he was “randomly added” because of his reach and prior position in the company.

Timing:

• DDot’s legal action comes shortly after rapper and producer – and equity shareholder in EVEN – J. Cole rolled out his new album on the platform.

• 21 Savage, Joji, Brent Faiyaz and LaRussell (another equity shareholder) have also worked with EVEN recently.

• The lawsuit follows the announcement of a multi-year agreement between EVEN and Universal Music Group.

Damages:

• DDot is pursuing compensation for lost wages, unpaid earnings, emotional distress, and any additional remedies available under federal and New York state law.