Birth of a Hip-Hop Powerhouse (Image Credits: Flickr)
Rap legends Snoop Dogg, Ice Cube, Too Short, and E-40, performing as Mount Westmore, have countersued their former merchandising partner Westside Merchandising LLC over allegations of fraud tied to a lucrative licensing deal.[1][2]
Birth of a Hip-Hop Powerhouse
The supergroup Mount Westmore emerged in 2020 when four West Coast rap pioneers united their talents. Snoop Dogg brought his smooth flow and enduring appeal, while Ice Cube added his sharp lyricism rooted in gangsta rap history. Too Short contributed his raw storytelling, and E-40 infused the mix with his distinctive slang and energy. This collaboration promised fresh music for longtime fans.[1]
The group quickly gained traction, releasing tracks and planning tours that highlighted their combined star power. Their formation marked a nostalgic return to the golden era of hip-hop, blending experience with modern production. Yet, behind the scenes, business ventures soon tested their unity.
Unveiling the Merchandising Partnership
Mount Westmore entered a licensing agreement with Westside Merchandising around 2022 to handle merchandise sales. Westside promised robust revenue streams beyond concerts, including major retail partnerships and e-commerce dominance. The rappers received a substantial advance exceeding $1.3 million to kickstart the venture.[3]
Actual sales fell short of expectations. Concert merchandise generated the bulk, but store and online channels underperformed significantly. Westside allegedly withheld detailed accounting, leaving the group in the dark about earnings.
Westside’s Offensive: The Original Breach Claim
Westside Merchandising filed the first lawsuit in November 2024, targeting Mount Westmore LLC and its members. The company accused the rappers of breaching the contract by delivering only a handful of shows from a promised 60-date tour across America and Europe. They demanded repayment of the $1.375 million advance, plus punitive damages for fraud and conversion.[3]
Court battles ensued, with Snoop Dogg and Ice Cube seeking to avoid depositions in 2025. Judges denied their motions, paving the way for testimony. Westside portrayed the group as unreliable partners who pocketed funds without fulfilling obligations.
Fraud Allegations in the Countersuit
Mount Westmore responded aggressively, claiming Westside misrepresented its capabilities to win the deal. The supergroup alleged false promises of high-volume retail sales lured them into the partnership. Despite receiving the advance, Westside reportedly failed to pay hundreds of thousands in owed royalties.[1]
Key issues included poor sales execution and transparency lapses. Here’s a breakdown of reported merchandise revenue:
| Sales Channel | Revenue |
|---|---|
| Concerts | $808,000 |
| Retail Stores | $90,000+ |
| E-commerce | $13,000 |
- Westside promised extensive non-concert revenue but delivered minimally.
- No promotional videos or appearances from key members as required.
- Ongoing failure to provide full financial reports.
Escalating Tensions and Lawyer’s Rebuttal
Westside’s attorney, John Fowler of Kibler Fowler & Cave LLP, dismissed the countersuit sharply. “The countersuit is full of falsehoods and fabrication, and reeks of desperation,” Fowler stated. He emphasized Westside’s stronger position after winning prior motions.[1]
The legal fight continues in court, with both sides digging in. Mount Westmore seeks unspecified damages, while Westside eyes recovery of its advance and more.
- Mount Westmore formed in 2020; merch deal struck in 2022.
- $1.3M+ advance fueled disputes over tour commitments and sales.
- Countersuit alleges fraud; original suit claims breach – battle rages on.
This saga underscores the risks in celebrity business deals, where hype meets harsh realities. As depositions loom and claims mount, the outcome could reshape trust in hip-hop merchandising. What side do you believe? Share your thoughts in the comments.