Former Evanescence guitarist Ben Moody has been hit with a lawsuit from his managers over allegations he owes them $500,000 (£312,500) in commission payments.

Officials at Rider Management Inc. have filed legal papers against the rocker, who has written songs for stars including Celine Dion, Avril Lavigne and Kelly Clarkson.

They allege Moody signed a deal with them in 2006, three years after he left Evanescence, and agreed to hand over commission on his projects.

However, bosses at the firm allege Moody failed to hand over $500,000, according to Tmz.com, and they have taken legal action to recoup the money.