The long-running dispute over MF DOOM’s rhyme books has ended, as the late rapper’s widow, Jasmine Thompson, and former Stones Throw executive Eothen “Egon” Alapatt have reached a confidential settlement.
On Friday (February 28), DOOM’s official Instagram account shared a message confirming that both parties had resolved their differences, with the notebooks now returned to Thompson, who will determine their next steps.
Alapatt, who had previously held onto the materials, issued a statement reflecting on the agreement:
“DOOM was a dear friend to me and one of the most important artists I’ve ever known. I bought DOOM’s notebooks and kept them safe for years to ensure his powerful musical legacy could be preserved… The resolution Jasmine and I have reached represents a significant triumph in protecting the genesis of a once-in-a-lifetime talent. I am proud to have played a role in saving some precious markers of DOOM’s life in music and trust Jasmine to determine the next steps for his notebooks.”
Thompson, speaking on behalf of herself and DOOM’s family, also expressed relief in closing this chapter:
“We are relieved to bring this chapter to a close. Over the years, there have been many public narratives concerning this matter, some of which have been misrepresented or unfairly magnified. While differences did arise along the way, we acknowledge that Egon preserved DOOM’s invaluable notebooks and are grateful to now have them returned as part of this resolution.”
The notebooks, the subject of a 2023 lawsuit, reportedly contained handwritten lyrics for tracks from Operation: Doomsday, Madvillainy, and MM…FOOD, as well as unreleased content.
The lawsuit alleged that Alapatt obtained the notebooks without his consent while DOOM was out of the country. Initially, Alapatt denied possessing them but later admitted to having them after being confronted by DOOM. He claimed that since he had covered $12,500 in rent for the rapper, he had rightful ownership of the materials.
“Although Alapatt has professed that he ‘does not intend to publish’ the unauthorized digital copies he made, he does not have to ‘publish’ the copies to be liable,” the complaint stated. “Regardless, [DOOM’s estate] alleges that Alapatt actually shared copies of the notebook with others.”
With the dispute settled and the notebooks returned, Thompson holds the authority to decide their future, ensuring that MF DOOM’s creative legacy remains intact.