Singer Emaza Gibson has filed a lawsuit against Jason Derulo, accusing him of promising her a record deal in exchange for a sexual relationship. The lawsuit sheds light on the allegations and the supposed events leading to Gibson’s legal action. Recently, the music superstar publicly responded to the allegations.
Jason Derulo Denies Allegations
Aspiring singer Emaza Gibson recently filed a lawsuit against Jason Derulo, alleging that he promised a record deal in exchange for a sexual relationship. On Oct. 6, Derulo responded to the allegations by Gibson on his Instagram page in a video:
“I wouldn’t normally comment but these claims are completely false and hurtful. I stand against all forms of harassment and I remain supportive of anybody following their dreams. I’ve always strived to live my life in a positively impactful way, and that’s why I sit here before you deeply offended by these defamatory claims. God bless.”
The Lawsuit
Emanza Gibson alleges that Derulo dropped her deal after she rejected his unwanted advances and declined his invitations for outings involving alcohol.
The lawsuit, filed on Oct. 5 in Los Angeles County Superior Court, reveals allegations against Jason Derulo of using his position in the music industry to manipulate her into a sexual relationship. Gibson claims that Derulo approached her in August 2021 to be part of a collaboration between his music imprint, Future History, and Atlantic Records.
According to the lawsuit, Gibson’s contract with Derulo required her to release a single featuring him and produce a mixtape within four months and an album within six.
Unwanted Advances
While working on music, Derulo reportedly invited Gibson to exclusive lounges for drinks and dinner. However, Gibson declined these invitations, intending to maintain a professional relationship. In September 2021, Derulo convinced Gibson to have a drink with him in the studio, where she alleges that she was given an excessive amount of alcohol.
Gibson stated that she had previously informed Derulo that she was not a drinker, but he continued to pressure her. In November 2021, Gibson traveled to New York City to meet with Atlantic executives and finalize her deal. Before the meeting, Derulo informed Gibson another woman named Rosa would be joining them.
According to the lawsuit, Rosa implied that she was in an intimate relationship with Derulo and showcased her own music during the meeting. Gibson interpreted this as a sign of Rosa’s career progress, further implying an inappropriate relationship between Rosa and Derulo.
Upon expressing her discomfort with Rosa’s involvement, Derulo allegedly became aggressive, screaming and hitting his armrests. He then went “radio silent” and failed to assign Gibson a project manager or respond to her messages.
Eventually, Gibson was dropped from Atlantic Records on September 6, 2022.
Lizzo Faces Sexual Harassment & Fat-Shaming Allegations
Another notable instance involved singer Lizzo, who faced accusations from several former backup singers in August 2023, alleging bullying, sexual harassment, and fat-shaming. The “Truth Hurts” artist denied these allegations, and she and her team requested a jury trial.