After a judge declared on Friday that Kesha was stuck in her recording contract with her longtime producer and alleged abuser, Dr. Luke, many artists took to social media to show the pop star their support. But one person was noticeably absent — and Demi Lovato, one of Kesha’s vocal supporters, not-so-subtly called out Taylor Swift on Saturday.
I’m also ready for self-proclaimed feminists to start speaking out or taking action for women’s rights.
— Demi Lovato (@ddlovato) February 21, 2016
Later that day, Swift’s rep told various media outlets, “In a show of support, Taylor Swift has donated $250,000 to Kesha to help with any of her financial needs during this trying time,” and Kesha’s mom, Pebe Sebert, confirmed it on Twitter.
That still wasn’t enough for Lovato.
Take something to Capitol Hill or actually speak out about something and then I’ll be impressed.
— Demi Lovato (@ddlovato) February 22, 2016
And while Demi has a point, enough about the bad blood between Taylor and Demi (though, bravo, Miss Lovato, whose Twitter timeline was all about women empowerment and equal rights for all). This is about Kesha and the turmoil she’s been going through since 2014, when she filed a lawsuit against Dr. Luke claiming he physically, sexually, verbally and emotionally assaulted her for a decade. He counter-sued, claiming Kesha and her manager were planning to extort him, but that suit was dismissed earlier this month. But what the judge’s ruling on Friday means for Kesha is that, if she wants to record more albums and release new music, she has to work with Dr. Luke. Why the judge didn’t take her off his label and move her to another one of Sony’s sub-labels is beyond us but that’s a whole other rant.
In response to the events, the hashtag #FreeKesha trended on Twitter, with some fans calling for a boycott of Sony Music, which distributes Kesha’s music, and many stars standing by the singer.
#FreeKesha 💗 this is only gonna make you stronger, you brave and beautiful girl. Prayers are with you 🙏🏼 @KeshaRose
— Demi Lovato (@ddlovato) February 20, 2016
There are people all over the world who love you @KeshaRose. And I can say truly I am in awe of your bravery.
— Lady Gaga (@ladygaga) February 19, 2016
This is some legit bullshit #FreeKesha https://t.co/EDgIXYnoIp
— Best Coast (@BestCoast) February 19, 2016
Trying 2 not say anything since I can’t say anything nice about a person… so this is me not talking about Dr. Luke https://t.co/lLhtUHbmgG
— Kelly Clarkson (@kelly_clarkson) February 19, 2016
standing with @KeshaRose through this traumatic, deeply unfair time. send good vibes her way everyone
— Lorde (@lorde) February 19, 2016
My thoughts are with @KeshaRose today. I’m sorry you’ve had to endure this experience.
— lily (@lilyallen) February 19, 2016
Inhumane to force parties to work together when the relationship is destroyed, especially given @KeshaRose circumstances #freekesha
— Darren Hayes (@darrenhayes) February 20, 2016
— Tegan and Sara (@teganandsara) February 20, 2016
Disgusted by anyone in power positions abusing their authority. My heart breaks for Kesha and all people affected by this toxicity. Fuck.
— HALSEY (@halsey) February 19, 2016
My heart is with @KeshaRose. 💜
— Ariana Grande (@ArianaGrande) February 19, 2016
Forcing a woman to work with her rapist, or to work to profit her rapist, is a failure of justice. #freekesha pic.twitter.com/yRI8n0T9TR
— Brad Walsh (@BradWalsh) February 19, 2016
Kesha’s mom wrapped it all up best.
Most important for Kesha, is that these beautiful, powerful women are standing behind her, letting the world see how powerful the truth is!
— keshas mom (@grannywrapper) February 22, 2016
Stay strong, Kesha, and keep on fighting to be heard.
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