Hey casco mike,
Thanks for the question. If I understand correctly, you are trying to use an email address you used with an Apple ID to create another Apple ID. I would recommend that you read this article, it may be able to help the issue.
Using an existing Apple ID with the iTunes Store, Mac App Store, and iBooks Store - Apple Support
If you have an Apple ID and try to use the same email address to create a new one at the iTunes Store, you'll see a message that says, "The email address you entered is already being used for an Apple Account. If it is yours, you can cancel and Sign In using that Apple Account." If this happens, click Cancel and sign in using your Apple ID.
Thanks for using Apple Support Communities.
Have a good one,
Mario