Protecting Artistic Interests: A Quest for Transparency in Management
The Core of the Dispute: Undisclosed Business Connections
Ellie Goulding has initiated legal proceedings against her former managers, Ben Mawson and Ed Millett, alleging that undisclosed business relationships may have compromised their fiduciary duties. The singer contends that she was not made aware that TaP Management, the company that represented her from 2018 to 2025, became fully or partially owned by Live Nation during their tenure.
Allegations of Financial Disadvantage: Touring and Merchandise Deals
The lawsuit posits that Mawson and Millett's affiliation with Live Nation created a conflict of interest. Goulding claims this conflict might have hindered their capacity to negotiate the most advantageous touring, merchandise, and film agreements on her behalf. Her legal team argues that the managers were bound by contractual obligations to Live Nation, which could have restricted their pursuit of deals with rival companies.
The Manager's Restraints: Obligations to Live Nation
Court documents indicate that the managers were allegedly under contractual constraints that prevented them from encouraging any artist under their guidance to reduce or cease business dealings with Live Nation and its associated entities. This clause forms a central pillar of Goulding's argument, suggesting her managers' loyalties were divided.
Seeking Reparation: Breach of Fiduciary Duty
Goulding is seeking unspecified equitable compensation or damages for what she alleges are breaches of fiduciary duty by her former management. This legal recourse aims to address the financial losses she believes were incurred due to the alleged conflict of interest.
TaP Management's History and Other Artists
Founded in 2010, TaP Management has a notable history of representing high-profile artists, including Dua Lipa and Lana Del Rey. Following her departure from TaP, Ms. Goulding has since aligned with Sarah Stennett for management and WME for global representation.
Upcoming Album Release Amidst Legal Battle
This legal challenge emerges just weeks before the anticipated release of Ellie Goulding's sixth studio album, titled "I Know Too Much," scheduled for September 4th. The album's launch will undoubtedly occur against the backdrop of these significant legal proceeding
