Kayne West pulled beats from Junior’s 1989 underground hit “Work This Pussy” without his permission and released it on Teyana Taylor’s K.T.S.E. release. The original was recorded in 1989, and it became one of the first tracks to launch the early 90’s vogueing craze.
“I’m still intrigued by how Kanye West and Teyana Taylor discovered my 30-year-old song,” says Junior. “I would love to know where and how they found it.”
Junior released the track under his former pseudonym, Ellis D. Boom Boom’s first live performance which took place at the original Sound Factory on West 21st Street.
Junior’s lawyer reached out to Kayne’s label and they agreed to a settlement. Vasquez is now receiving royalties on Teyana Taylor’s WTP as well as writer and publishing credits. “I’m pleased by the success of the new version,” he continues. “Teyana Taylor has introduced the track to a whole new genre that I would never have thought imaginable. Who knows?
He adds, “Maybe it will inspire other hip-hop artists and producers to take a look at my collective body of work to see what other tracks might have crossover potential?”
Ellis D, aka Junior Vasquez – Work This Pussy
Teyana Taylor – W.T.P.
