George Jones’ Producer Sued Nancy
Back in 2018, it was reported that one of George Jones’ producers was suing Jones’ widow in a $5 million lawsuit. Earl’ Peanut’ Montgomery played in Jones’ band, produced music for him, and co-wrote more than 70 songs for the country superstar.
He alleged that Nancy Sepulvado, Cracker Barrel, and Concord Music Group released a long-shelved album without his permission.
In his lawsuit, filed in a Nashville federal court, Montgomery claims that he and Jones created an ambitious album together. Jones wanted him to produce and own the album as a retirement package for being a good friend to Mr. Jones.
The album, titled George Jones & the Smoky Mountain Boys, was recorded but shelved as Jones entered into other recording agreements over the years.
After Jones passed away, Nany sold the singer’s intellectual property to Concord for an alleged $30 million. In 2017, Concord and Cracker Bell released the George Jones & the Smoky Mountain Boys album.
But, Montgomery claimed that even though he produced the original recordings, he was neither listed in the liner notes nor received compensation for the work.
Well, such suits come up from time to time when a famous and wealthy person such as Mr. Jones dies, with everyone wanting a piece of the celebrity’s legacy. Nancy played a critical role in helping her late husband turn his life around when he was at the peak of his all-consuming roller coaster of alcoholism and drug abuse.
She cleaned up his finances and health, and we’re sure she carefully thought about her decision to sell her late husband’s assets and intellectual property.