DEVIL WITH A CASE

Kid Rock's long-time manager Stephen Hutton has filed a wrongful termination suit against Kid Rock and his Top Dog Records.

The suit follows Hutton's abrupt termination several weeks ago, and Rock's subsequent hiring of Bob Seger manager Punch Andrews.

The breach of contract and unjust enrichment complaint seeks compensatory damages of no less than $4 million. Hutton is also seeking a ruling that he is entitled to a commission on Rock's future earnings.

The suit alleges that prior to his relationship with Hutton, Kid Rock (known to his mom as Robert Ritchie) released two albums to lukewarm response. Hutton met Rock in 1994, took a chance on him and has devoted himself to cultivating Rock's career, it continues.

Hutton's initial management efforts helped land Rock a deal with Atlantic Records, and he and Rock worked together on concert tours, publishing contracts, film appearances and merchandising deals.

Under terms of the Hutton-Rock contract, Hutton is entitled to 15% of Kid Rock's gross income and 10% of his fur coats.