An HHDX Follow-up By Virginia Correspondent Talithia Kelly

As stated in a HHDX exclusive report, allegations have been made against Joseph Cartegena a.k.a. Fat Joe regarding the hit song, “Lean Back.” The allegations state that Fat Joe ripped off a local VA artist, Christopher Chapman a.k.a. Face Dirty (whom also refers to himself as the “Rap Sheriff” because he’s bringing justice to the rap game), for the concept, hook, and melody of “Lean Back.”

In reference to these allegations the response from the Terror Squad camp has been minimal. There has yet to be an official comment made by Universal, Fat Joe’s attorneys, or his publicist. The attorney for Face Dirty has contacted the attorneys but no sit down arrangements have been made as of yet. In a sense, seems the potential lawsuit is being taken frivolously on Fat Joe’s behalf.

At one point in time there was an A&R rep that will remain nameless, who was willing to testify on behalf of Face Dirty, but for fear of compromising his job or “rocking the boat” the rep backed down. There’s further confirmation that other playas in the music industry stated, “Lean Back” was out of Fat Joe’s character. So what’s really good?

According to Duncan Byers, the attorney for Face Dirty, there are grounds for a potential lawsuit, if and when they decide to pursue the suit further. At this current time no real detailed information regarding the case is being given. They are still in the process of “putting the pieces together” and lining up the right people to testify. In other words, they want to make sure they have all of their ducks in a row, so to speak.

Face Dirty and his attorney have given Universal until February 24th, to negotiate a settlement or else he will be moving forward with a court date.

Why are the attorneys for Fat Joe and the Terror Squad not willing to sit down and resolve the issue?

When the publicist for Fat Joe, Aimee Morris was contacted she stated that she knew nothing of the matter and therefore had no comment except that she “would talk to Joe.” Further, who is the Universal A&R representative responsible for this fowl up?

After the February 24th deadline if no settlement or agreement is reached names and full documentation from Face Dirty's attorney and Universal along with the A&R’s name will be released here on HHDX.

To clearly understand the severity of the matter, check out the song for yourself. Listen to Face Dirty’s lyrics to Fat Joe’s track and decide for yourself. At first glance there seems to be no common elements, but when stripped down to a basic hook and melody, the verse speaks for itself. Continued on page 2 »