Dr. Luke’s Label Won’t Let Kesha Perform at Billboard Music Awards

A scheduled Kesha performance at the Billboard Music Awards is now in question after Dr. Luke’s label reportedly “rescinded” its written approval.

In a statement to Billboard, Dick Clark Productions (which is producing the show) said, “Kesha accepted an invitation to perform on the show and she received written approval from Dr. Luke’s record label, Kemosabe Records. Kemosabe subsequently rescinded its approval following a media report on Wednesday May 11 regarding Kesha’s appearance on the BBMAs. Unfortunately, Kesha and Kemosabe have since been unable to come to an agreement for Kesha to perform on the show.”

The quote seems to be referring to a report by TMZ that Kesha’s performance would make a statement about her ongoing legal battle with Dr. Luke, and might even feature images of the producer.

Kesha commented on the situation on Instagram, writing, “I was very excited to perform a tribute to Bob Dylan by singing a cover of “It ain’t me, babe” at the Billboard awards this year. I’m very sad and sorry to say I won’t be allowed to do this. I just wanted to make very clear that this performance was about me honoring one of my favorite songwriters of all time and has never had anything at all to do with Dr. Luke.”

Kesha has sought to get out of her contract with Dr. Luke because she says he sexually abused her when she was making music with him. He has denied all wrongdoing and a judge upheld the contract earlier this year, denying a preliminary injunction.

Dick Clark Productions says it is still hopeful that the parties can work out an arrangement before the Sunday show. Dr. Luke’s representative declined a request for comment.

[Billboard]