R. Kelly Accused Of Stiffing Former Manager

No pause needed on that headline, btw.

TMZ got their hands on a report this evening from Kells former manager Jeff Kwatinetz, who filed suit against Rob Kelly claiming the R&B crooner failed to pay him millions for his services.  In the suit, Kwatinetz claims he revived Kells career in 2008 (huh?) and helped the Pied Piper rake in millions from book deals, concerts and albums. Kwatinetz alleges Rob’s camp instead paid off various accusers and victims from the child pornography incident. Okay. I could understand if he claimed he resurrected Kells career in 2003, in the midst of his sextape and child porn scandal, when he was feverishly cranking out hits for himself and everyone else who had a budget – but in 2008 – not so much.  What has he released since then? The Untitled and Love Letter albums?  Both dope projects, but neither had a massive hit (I’m thinking his last smash was “I’m A Flirt” in 2007).  Call me crazy, but I’m going to have to throw that charge out.  The rest of the stuff I have no knowledge on, obviously.

The manager — Jeff Kwatinetz — filed a lawsuit against Kelly today in L.A. County Superior Court … claiming he single-handedly resurrected R. Kelly’s career back in 2008 … when the singer was drowning in child pornography charges.

Jeff claims he “guided Kelly through the recording of two new albums, substantial multi-million dollar tours … a book deal, and a myriad of other appearances and events” — and “Kelly reaped millions of dollars” while under his management.

But according to Jeff, Kelly left him in the lurch — and “has failed and refused to pay” the 15% commission rate they allegedly agreed on.

According to the lawsuit, Kelly’s business manager regularly told Jeff he couldn’t be paid “because the monies were needed for payments to avoid lawsuits and adverse publicity resulting from Kelly’s alleged [sexual misconduct].”

Now, Jeff wants Kelly to pony up at least $1 million in unpaid commissions and punitive damages.

A spokesperson for Kelly is calling B.S. on the lawsuit — telling TMZ, “Jeff Kwatinetz’s complaint is a collection of half-truths, distortions, and outright fabrications.”

The rep adds, “Mr. Kwatinetz is a disgruntled former manager who apparently feels the need to try to seek retribution for his discharge. It is particularly disturbing, given his job as a professional talent manager and trusted adviser, that he would feel the need to lash out and dish what he thinks is dirt against a former client.”

“When the actual facts are presented, however, we are confident that his allegations will be found to be completely without merit.”