Talib Kweli Accused of Bullying, Sexually Harassing Singer Res

Talib Kweli, Rese

Talib Kweli Accused of Bullying, Sexually Harassing Singer Res

When things fall apart, they can get really ugly. Talib Kweli is a Brooklyn based rapper/label owner who is most know for his work with Mos Def as a member of the duo, Black Star and his solo releases on Rawkus Records. Kweli (real name Talib Kweli Greene) is involved in a public legal battle with a former female collaborator. The woman in question is a Philadelphia soul singer named Res.

Even though they released a debut album as a duo called “Idle Warship” back in 2011, Talib Kweli and Res had been working together since 2000. Recently, a social media feud erupted between the two former bandmates, fueled by accusations of sexual harassment, bullying, breach of contract and copyright infringement.

As a solo artist, Res was signed to Kweli’s Javotti Media record label. She appeared on multiple songs and toured with the “Get By” rapper. Somewhere along the way however, things went astray. In multiple tweets she accused him of holding her career ‘hostage’ because she refused his ‘advances’. Res said in one post,

I tried to be humble but you letting a kiss that you didn’t get @talibKweli keep my career on hold and I dare you to say I’m not telling the truth you know Gmail Mr [Greene] wasn’t you married then I’ll wait.

She also wrote,

We both have the email of you apologizing for making a pass at me @TalibKweli when we was on a trip to make music. How is this in the contract why do I have to Kiss you to be out of my contract?

The Philly singer also claims she is not the only female artist that Kweli has tried to sleep with. Similarly, she says when they denied his advances, he refused to help them in the music industry.

Res alludes to Talib and Javotti Media not releasing music she recorded for them years ago.

Jesus, do you know how many women you tried to have sex with to put them on and they said NO and were are they now @TalibKweli let’s talk I been silent for four years I shall not be bullied no more. Keep the music I still have my voice.

Talib lashed out at her accusations calling her a ‘liar’. He says she was dropped from his label in 2013 for,

disrespecting my employees and for failing to turn in an album I invested in.

The accompanying court documents confirmed the legal battle but the rapper also said

I fully and categorically deny any allegation of sexual harassment.

In the wake of the powerful #MeTooMovement these can be career ending accusations. Res also feels Talib Kweli’s practices are no different than a major label, citing he wanted 100% control of her image and marketing. Between the lawsuits and counterclaims, allegations of “unwanted and unprovoked” actions, and “considerable mental and emotional distress”, were dismissed by Judge Carolyn Wade, noting “the elements are not sufficiently pled.”

In May, Kweli’s lawyer filed paperwork seeking enforcement of a settlement agreement allegedly reached by both parties. The terms call for Res to be released from her contract with Javotti Media, ordered to cease distribution of a song featuring Kweli called “You Don’t Know Me” and return $12K of an advance paid by the label. Kweli said on Instagram,

She is trying to use the #metoo movement to bully me into dropping my lawsuit against her. 

This has gotten ugly indeed.

By: TheDiamondKShow