Verity Records Sues TONEX for Over $ 1 Million

Washington, DC - Award-winning Gospel artist, Tonex, is being sued by Zomba Recording/Verity Records for over $1 million after Tonex complained to the world that he is being mistreated and, thus, desires to break ties with the record company.

Tonex's attorney, Courtney M. Coates, Esq. says, "This unfortunate and heavy-handed lawsuit was filed for no other purpose than to force Tonex to record future albums under harsh, oppressive and unacceptable working conditions which no artist should tolerate." He continues, "Notably, the allegations made by Zomba/Verity against Tonex still ignore Tonex's numerous complaints about the label's unfair business practices, including its failure to completely and accurately account and pay him monies owed over the last several years."

Tonex's independent record label, Nureau Ink, LLC, wants to release the best of Tonex's latest music under his sole creative direction and control. Last week, Nureau Ink and Tonex fought back and filed a federal lawsuit in California to have a judge confirm that Tonex's recording contract is terminated or otherwise unenforceable.

As the renowned minister, producer, writer, singer, actor, and dancer begin to fight for his freedom, Tonex says, "This is not just about me. I represent every artist that has been manipulated and used by the music industry and I seek vindication for all of the unsung heroes who are not working and not eating, because they are not being treated fairly by record companies."

This intense legal battle will set the stage for future artists and increase awareness to other possible victims in the music industry.

An impassioned Tonex says, "I want to put out the greatest music I've ever worked on, but Verity Records won't allow me to do so." He adds, "Even though I have endured my share of personal hardships, I am definitely made out of steel and velvet and am putting all of my trust in the Almighty God."While Tonex is struggling financially to make ends meet, his music has made Zomba/Verity well in the millions in record sales. The artist's loyal fan base includes over 500,000 people and a radio listening audience of over 40,000,000 weekly.

Taking unprecedented steps to slay a gospel music giant, such as Zomba/Verity, takes fortitude, but Tonex says he's ready with God and his fans by his side. "Although Verity has left me financially broke and without anything, I am still in good spirits and know that a lot of people are supporting this ministry," says the artist.

Tonex's music has been featured on previous films and soundtracks such as "The Good Song"on Sony Films "XXX:State of Union, "Off We Go" on Sony Pictures J-LO /Ben Afleck Film "GIGLI", "Cry No More" on the HBO Film "PRISON SONG" starring Q-Tip & Mary J. Blige and a theme song on UPN/Paramount Pictures "ONE ON ONE". He has also been seen on various BET programs, TBN, NBC, CBS, ABC, Motown Live, Hollywood Access, BET Style, TV One, Soul Train, and Showtime at the Apollo. Additionally, he has appeared in publications such as Billboard, USA Today, Ebony, Jet, Right On, Vibe, Sister 2 Sister, Jet, Upscale, Essence, Entertainment Weekly, and Black Beat Magazine.

Tonex is assembling a top legal defense team and has set up a legal defense fund to help him defray the costs of litigation. He has retained San Francisco entertainment lawyer, Courtney M. Coates, Esq., of Hanson, Bridgett, Marcus, Vlahos & Rudy to prosecute his California case. Well-known New York attorney, Londelle McMillan, Esq. of The McMillan Law Firm is reportedly exploring the prospect of defending Tonex in the New York lawsuit. If you are interested in showing financial support for Tonex during this difficult time, please mail all checks payable to "Hanson Bridgett Client-Trust Account," c/o Courtney M. Coates, Esq, 425 Market Street, 26th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94105

For more details log on the official Tonex myspace page at www.myspace.com/tonexworld.