Drew Dixon, a former A&R executive at Arista Records, has received a green light from a federal judge to move forward with her lawsuit against former executive Antonio “L.A.” Reid.
The case centers on claims that Reid retaliated against Dixon by blocking the signings of artists Ye (formerly Kanye West) and John Legend after she refused his sexual advances.
Judge Jeannette A. Vargas ruled that Dixon’s claims related to lost commissions and career damage can proceed, rejecting Reid’s attempt to dismiss the case due to the statute of limitations.
The judge relied on New York’s Adult Survivors Act, which allows victims of sexual misconduct to bring claims even if the incidents happened years ago.
According to Dixon, Reid sexually harassed her during her time at Arista, including two incidents in 2001 involving unwanted physical contact. After she declined Reid’s advances, Dixon alleges he retaliated by undermining her efforts to sign Ye and John Legend. She says Reid openly dismissed Ye’s audition in front of label staff and did not attend Legend’s audition, effectively blocking both deals. Dixon argues these actions damaged her career and led to lost earnings. Neither artist is accused of any wrongdoing in this case.
Reid has denied all allegations. His legal defense was further complicated recently when his attorney withdrew from the case over unpaid fees and communication problems. With the trial set for early September, Reid must find new representation or represent himself.
This lawsuit is part of a series of legal challenges Reid faces. He left Epic Records in 2017 amid separate sexual harassment claims from a former employee.
