NYCDSS Accuses Jay-Z of Making False Claims in Roc-A-Fella Records Auction

The ongoing legal battle between Jay-Z and the New York City Department of Social Services has taken a new turn, with NYCDSS accusing the rapper of making false claims that have negatively impacted the upcoming auction of Damon Dash’s one-third share of Roc-A-Fella Records. The auction, intended to help Dash pay off his substantial debts, including unpaid child support, has been marred by controversy.

Roc-A-Fella Records, founded in 1994 by Jay-Z, Damon Dash, and Kareem “Biggs” Burke, has been at the center of a legal dispute as Dash faces mounting financial obligations. With a federal court judgment against him and unpaid child support and tax bills, Dash announced his intention to auction off his share in the record label.

However, Jay-Z and Burke attempted to block the auction, claiming changes to the bylaws required their approval. The court rejected their arguments, paving the way for the auction to proceed. Jay-Z then made public statements asserting his right to reclaim ownership of the copyright in the album in seven years, potentially limiting the rights of any purchaser.

In response, NYCDSS filed a motion in federal court, alleging that Jay-Z’s statements have harmed the auction process and could impact the amount generated to satisfy Dash’s debts. The motion seeks to stay the auction until the court rules on Jay-Z’s termination rights and requests Roc-A-Fella to provide royalty records for the album.

The legal battle between Jay-Z and NYCDSS continues to unfold, with the City of New York determined to ensure that the auction proceeds fairly and benefits all parties involved. The outcome of this dispute could have significant implications for the future of Roc-A-Fella Records and its stakeholders.