Lady Gaga fires back at music producer in NY court, files response challenging $30M lawsuit

Lady Gaga fires back in NY court at music producer

NEW YORK — Lady Gaga is firing back at a music producer who claims he launched her career and is suing her for $30.5 million

Her lawyer says in a court filing made public Friday that the agreement at the heart of the suit was “unlawful.”

Song writer and music producer Rob Fusari filed the lawsuit Wednesday in New York City against the Grammy Award-winning performer. He said his protege and former girlfriend ditched him as her career soared.

The suit says they co-wrote songs such as “Paparazzi” and “Beautiful, Dirty, Rich.” Fusari also says he came up with her stage name and helped get her record deal.

Lady Gaga won two Grammys in January: best dance recording, for “Poker Face,” and best electronic/dance album, for “The Fame.”

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.

NEW YORK (AP) — Lady Gaga’s spokesman is declining to comment on a music producer’s lawsuit.

Rob Fusari filed the $30.5 million lawsuit in Manhattan against the Grammy Award-winning performer on Wednesday. He said his protege and former girlfriend ditched him as her career soared.

The suit says they co-wrote songs such as “Paparazzi” and “Beautiful, Dirty, Rich.” Fusari also says he came up with her stage name and helped get her record deal.

Lady Gaga won two Grammys in January: best dance recording, for “Poker Face,” and best electronic/dance album, for “The Fame.”

Her real name is Stefani Germanotta. Her spokesman, Dave Tomberlin, declined to comment Friday on the suit.