M.I.A. sues Kid Cudi for $2.8 M over tour removal

British singer and rapper M.I.A. has filed a lawsuit against fellow artist Kid Cudi, alleging he wrongfully removed her from his tour to generate publicity and seeking over $2.8 million in damages. The legal action stems from her dismissal from Kid Cudi's "Rebel Ragers Tour" following controversial remarks she made during a performance in Dallas earlier this month.

According to the complaint filed in California federal court, M.I.A., born Mathangi Arulpragasam, claims Kid Cudi, whose legal name is Scott Ramon Seguro Mescudi, knew her political beliefs and reputation before inviting her to open the Live Nation-promoted tour. Her contract allegedly guaranteed her "sole and exclusive creative control" over her performances. The lawsuit states she was "contractually allowed to say whatever she wanted on stage."

The dispute centers on events during the tour's Dallas stop on May 2. During her set, M.I.A. made statements that were booed by some attendees. She told the audience, "I've been cancelled for many reasons, I never thought I would be cancelled for being a brown Republican voter." She also referenced her song "Illegal," stating, "Can't do 'Illegal,' though some of you could be...