Grammy-winning music producer The Dream, known for hits like “Umbrella” and “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It),” is facing serious allegations of sexual and physical assault from a former collaborator.
Chanaaz Mangroe, a 33-year-old singer-songwriter who performs under the name Channii Monroe, filed a lawsuit in California federal court on Tuesday. The lawsuit details a pattern of abuse allegedly inflicted by The-Dream, whose real name is Terius Gesteelde-Diamant.
Mangroe claims she met The Dream in 2014, when she was 23 and aspiring to make it big in the music industry. The lawsuit alleges The Dream initially lured her with promises of career advancement, including writing hit songs and securing an opening slot on Beyoncé’s tour.
However, the relationship reportedly took a dark turn, with Mangroe accusing The Dream of controlling her life, monitoring her movements, and forcing her to drink excessively.
The lawsuit details disturbing allegations of violent sexual encounters, including strangulation and forced intercourse. Mangroe further claims The Dream filmed their sexual encounters and used them to manipulate her.
“This is yet another horrific example of how men in the music industry use their power and influence to manipulate and harm others,” stated Mangroe’s attorneys, Douglas H. Wigdor and Meredith Firetog. They compared the situation to their representation of Cassie Ventura in a sexual harassment lawsuit against Sean “Diddy” Combs.
The Dream has denied all allegations, calling them “untrue and defamatory.” He claims to be a strong advocate against harassment and committed to empowering artists.
Mangroe is seeking compensation for lost income, emotional distress, and punitive damages. This case highlights the ongoing issue of power imbalances and abuse within the music industry.
