After a highly documented lawsuit, yesterday (Friday 19th February) a judge at the Manhattan Supreme Court in New York ruled that Kesha would not be released from her recording contract with producer Dr Luke following Kesha’s accusations that he physically, emotionally and verbally abused her for several years, including an instance in which he allegedly drugged and raped the singer. An image has circulated online which was taken moments after Kesha heard the ruling, showing the singer breaking down in tears.

Kesha’s contract is with Dr Luke’s record label Kemosabe Records, which is owned by Sony, and in the aftermath of Kesha’s request to be freed from her contract being denied there have been furious calls from many to boycott Sony, with Kesha’s fans rallying around the singer, protesting outside the courtroom and helping to pioneer the online #FreeKesha movement. It has been reported that Kesha is contractually obliged to release 6 more studio albums with Kemosabe Records.

According to Hollywood Reporter, the judge’s reasoning for not permitting the injunction was on the grounds that there was no medical evidence to hand to back up Kesha’s allegations against Dr Luke. While Kesha may be given the opportunity to amend her counterclaims, this news has been received with great disappointment and sympathy for the singer.

The high profile case has drawn attention to claims that the music industry still displays a significant amount of gender inequality, sadly highlighting the failures of the legal system regarding rape claims and has inspired some to campaign not only for Kesha’s safety, but for the safety of victims of sexual harassment worldwide. Kesha is yet to release an official statement regarding yesterday’s ruling.

thank you for all the support in my legal case animals. i love all of you. it's meant the world to me. xoxo pic.twitter.com/arHNPSxFs8

— kesha (@KeshaRose) February 18, 2016