Drake Sued: Ex-Girlfriend Seeks Royalties for 'Marvin's Room'

Drake sued Marvin's RoomBarry Brecheisen, Getty Images

Drake has already admitted to making his ex-girlfriends cry with his close-to-home song lyrics based on past relationships. The candid rapper has said he gets "so immersed" in his songs that he forgets about what the subjects of his lyrics might feel when they hear the track -- until they call, that is. Or in the latest case of the ex, file a lawsuit against him!

Drake is being sued by Ericka Lee, who claims to be both his ex-girlfriend and the voice on the other end of the phone call in the rapper's emotional 'Take Care' hit, 'Marvin's Room.' Lee filed a suit in a Los Angeles court claiming she was excluded from sharing co-writer royalties for the drunk dial-inspired song.

According to the court papers, Lee and Drizzy shared both a romantic and professional relationship from early 2010 until mid-2011, calling it quits shortly after the June 2011 release of 'Marvin's Room.' Lee alleged that during that time, the two collaborated on a collection of song lyrics and poems, and that Drake agreed to split the 'Marvin's Room' earnings with her as a co-writer.

Furthermore, the accuser claims that she was originally set to sing the hook and recite an opening monologue for that track, which never came to fruition. In exchange for her contributions to the song, Drake reportedly offered Lee 2 percent of the publishing royalties, and later raised the offer to 4-5 percent along with a $50,000 settlement.

While there was no contract or written agreement documenting said business arrangements, Lee cited several text message conversations as her proof. Reportedly, Drake sent a text that read, "U basically made that song."

Apparently 5 percent royalties and $50K isn't enough for Lee and her five-word text message contract. She is seeking a co-writing credit on the song, as she sues for an undisclosed amount for damages.



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ATSUshi Mizuno

wow!!

February 06 2012 at 12:43 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
swtnprecious1991

"U basically made that song."

HE MORE THEN LIKELY MEANT U JUST INSPIRED THE SONG. DUHHHH!!!

However, if she helped write the song I guess she deserves some $$$.

Drake reportedly offered Lee 2 percent of the publishing royalties, and later raised the offer to 4-5 percent along with a $50,000 settlement.

I know times are tough. But come on. Thats a real deal there. Get over yourself geez and accept.

;-)

February 04 2012 at 9:19 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Sharon

I'm glad she is seeking her money...these guys in the music business love to use women contribution and get the credit and the money for it......she deserve to get what is due...

Lots of women have written songs and the man has gotten credit for it.......and they did not even get anything for it...it's a new day now!

It even goes back as far as Bach........

Lots of time if they take the Male artist to court, they will loose because the male artist is famous and can hire top lawyers and they are not.....Let see how this will turn out!

February 04 2012 at 3:35 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
FlowerPower

I really like the music of Jana Barros. Rap wouldn't be the same without her in the game.

February 03 2012 at 9:53 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
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