Hipgnosis Songs Group CEO Kenny MacPherson sued for sexual battery and harassment

nme.com:

Rolling Stone, MacPherson’s attorney stated that they “vehemently deny all allegations made against Mr. MacPherson in Ms. Lewis’ unverified complaint filed”.In the suit, it is outlined that the company – which represented clients like OutKast and Thom Yorke – hired Lewis in the summer of 2002, and MacPherson joined shortly thereafter.

It also alleges that he began showing Lewis increasingly more attention during their time working together, which soon “devolved from mentorship to inappropriate behaviour”.These reportedly included “physically invading Sara’s personal space” and inviting himself back to her hotel room where he supposedly touched her thigh and confessed his love for her.

Later, the instances escalated, the claim states, and would see MacPherson frequently corner her in the office, attempt to kiss and physically grope her, demand access to her at all hours of the day, and try to initiate phone sex.Hipgnosis – which owns catalogue rights for artists including Justin Bieber and Nile Rodgers – confirmed MacPherson was placed on a leave of absence on Tuesday morning (October 3) and shared a statement (via Variety).“Hipgnosis Songs Fund has a policy of zero-tolerance to harassment or abuse,” it reads. “While these historic allegations relate to a period 15 years before Hipgnosis was founded, Kenny MacPherson was placed on leave of absence from Hipgnosis Songs Group as soon as it became aware of the allegations.

Our rigorous procedures for dealing with such matters have commenced.”Additionally BMG, who later merged with Chrysalis, told the outlet: “BMG stands solidly against all forms of discrimination, harassment, and abuse and we are shocked and dismayed by the allegations made by Sara Lewis.