Skip to main content

Five years after Chance the Rapper countersued his former manager, Pat Corcoran, a jury has reached a verdict. After Corcoran sued Chance, claiming he was owed millions in unpaid commissions, Chance responded with a $1 million lawsuit of his own. While the jury didn’t award him anywhere close to that amount, Chance said he still views the ruling as a victory.

Chance the Rapper sued his former manager

In 2021, Corcoran filed a suit against Chance seeking $3.8 million in unpaid expenses and commissions. Per Rolling Stone, the pair began working together in 2012. At this time, they “reached an oral agreement under which Mr. Corcoran would manage Mr. Bennett’s music career and, during that tenure, would be compensated for his services with 15% of the net profits that Mr. Bennett earned from the exploitation of his music.”

This was never put in writing, however. Shortly after Corcoran filed his suit, Chance responded with one of his own. He claimed Corcoran exploited his position as a manager and damaged his reputation. He sought $1 million in damages.

The jury awarded him just a fraction of what he sought

After two hours of deliberation, a jury reached a verdict in the case. They ruled that Corcoran could not prove Chance owed him $3.8 million. They also ruled on Chance’s lawsuit. While this was a legal victory for him, they didn’t award him anywhere close to the $1 million he sought. Instead, they ruled Corcoran must pay him $35 and recommended he turn over the domain ChanceRaps.com. 

Related

How Old Is Chance the Rapper and What Is His Net Worth?

“We respect the jury’s decision, but the message to music managers is clear: Get it in writing,” Jay Scharkey, one of Corcoran’s attorneys, told the Chicago Sun-Times. “The jury award of $35 speaks to how seriously the jury viewed Chance’s case.”

Chance’s attorneys called the ruling a “complete vindication” for the rapper.

Chance the Rapper said he views the ruling as a victory

Chance noted that the jury’s ruling was a victory not only for himself, but for artists everywhere.

“Friday marked an important day in setting a legal precedent for artists everywhere,” he said. “I’m grateful for the time and care the jury took in reviewing the evidence and reaching their decision. The verdicts in my favor underscore the importance of artists not being locked into terms they did not agree to, and having transparency, respect, and control over their business and work.”

He hopes the ruling will protect the rights of artists as he moves forward from the case.

“While only two of my claims were before the jury, my broader case has always been about accountability and protecting the rights of artists. My larger claim remains before the Court, and I will continue to address that claim through the proper process. I’m proud to have stood up for myself and artists everywhere, and I look forward to turning my full attention back to my fans and what’s ahead.”

Best in News