In response to recent accusations of exploitative practices against Dapper Music & Entertainment, by Nigerian artists Shallipopi and Muyeez, the music firm has issued a detailed statement refuting the claims and defending its business practices.
The record label, in a press release, reiterated its commitment to transparency, fairness, and artist development while addressing the financial realities of the music industry in Nigeria.
The statement, titled “Addressing Recent Allegations with Transparency and Integrity”, clarified the allegations raised by the two artists. Shallipopi, whose real name is Crown Uzama, had claimed that the label locked him into a “forever deal.”
But, refuting the claim, Dapper Music said, “We do not have any agreements with Mr. Crown Uzama that ties the artist’s future earnings to our business indefinitely. Our contracts solely relate to recordings and opportunities worked on and provided by our team within the contract term, which is common practice in the recording industry.”
On the issue of financial transparency, the label maintained that it had been open with its account books, stating that, “We have provided all parties with full accounting via our accounting system. We are surprised by Mr. Crown Uzama’s false claims, especially as we are currently cooperating fully with the auditors he has engaged.”
Addressing Muyeez’s allegations of being a minor at the time of signing his contract, Dapper Music declared that the artist’s claims were “completely false.”
The statement explained: “It is completely false that Moshood Abdulmuiz p/k/a Muyeez signed a contract with us as a minor. On the contrary, his Guardian and Father namely, Moshood Basheer, specifically signed the said contracts on his behalf with witnesses at the signing ceremony.”
Dapper Music also described the allegations as a coordinated attack, saying, “these accusations are premeditated, false, calculated, and sponsored attacks against us by proxies as a result of our growth and success as a company. We will seek redress in a court of competent jurisdiction.”
In addition to addressing the specific allegations, the label highlighted its investment in artist development and the financial challenges within Nigeria’s music industry, which offers lower royalty payouts compared to other markets.
On the controversial 30 per cent management commission, Dapper Music defended its position, emphasising that the rate was agreed upon by the artists, “The commission reflects the substantial resources dedicated to launching and sustaining careers. Shallipopi, for example, had the opportunity to review and renegotiate the terms with full legal representation after the success of his first album.”
The label expressed gratitude to fans and investors who make their work possible,”To the fans who buy tickets, stream songs, and share music, thank you for believing in the power of creativity. You enable outfits like Dapper Music & Entertainment to take risks on emerging talent in a non-discriminatory manner. To the businessmen who venture into this unpredictable industry, your belief is the backbone of our resilience.”
Dapper Music reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a balanced music ecosystem, “For this industry to thrive, there must be balance—a recognition of effort, respect for partnership, and understanding of mutual responsibility.”
The ongoing dispute highlighted the complexities of relationships between artists and record labels.