Major artist-label disputes in the Nigerian music industry
The Nigerian music industry has witnessed several high-profile disputes between artists and record labels over the years.
While record labels play a crucial role in launching and promoting artists, conflicts often arise when artists seek greater control over their careers, financial earnings, and creative direction.
Below is a look at some of the most notable disputes and splits between Nigerian artists and their record labels.
1. Shallipopi and Dapper Music
In 2024, Nigerian street-hop artist Crown Uzama, popularly known as Shallipopi, officially parted ways with Dapper Music Entertainment. Speculation about his departure arose when he removed the label’s name from his social media bio and unfollowed its CEO, Damilola Akinwunmi. His exit followed a pattern seen in the Nigerian music industry, where artists sought independence after gaining mainstream success.
Shallipopi first gained prominence in 2023 with hits like Elon Musk, Oscroh, and Cast. This was before releasing albums Presido La Pluto and Shakespopi under Dapper Music. However, as his career advanced, he established Plutomania Records, signing artists such as Zerry DL and Tega Boi, signaling a shift toward creative and business autonomy.
While Shallipopi confirmed in an interview with Naija FM that his contract with Dapper Music had ended naturally and that there was no conflict, his exit coincided with that of fellow artist Seyi Vibez, who also left the label around the same time. Moving forward, Shallipopi focused on expanding Plutomania Records and furthering his independent career.
2. Seyi Vibez and Dapper Music
Seyi Vibez, one of Nigeria’s notable artists, ended his partnership with Dapper Music in 2024. The split became evident when he deleted all posts from his Instagram account, removed the label’s name from his bio, and replaced it with the word “Independent,” signaling his departure from the label.
The artist, who broke into the mainstream in 2022 with the release of his hit single Chance, achieved significant commercial success under Dapper Music. A confidential source confirmed that Seyi Vibez had officially parted ways with the label. The split followed the cancellation of his Canadian tour, which the organizers cited as being due to “circumstances beyond their control.” His departure sparked speculation about a possible rift between the artist and the label under which he gained widespread recognition.
Despite the split, Seyi Vibez continued his musical journey independently. Earlier in 2024, he launched his own record label, Vibez INC, and introduced a roster of new artists. With over six solo projects released between November 2022 and early 2025, he remained active in the industry, and fans closely watched his next moves as an independent artist.
3. Asake and YBNL
In 2024, speculations about a split between Asake and YBNL intensified after the artist removed the record label’s name from his social media bio, deleted all posts related to YBNL, and unfollowed its founder, Olamide, on Instagram. He replaced YBNL with the title “Creative Director” in his bio, further fueling rumors of his departure.
Asake, who signed with YBNL in January 2022, reportedly bought out his contract after nearly three years to become an independent artist. Reports suggested that while Olamide allowed him to terminate the contract amicably, he had initially tried to renew the deal, but Asake declined. Though Asake gained ownership of the masters to all songs recorded under YBNL, the label retained a royalty split for the next 10 years. Olamide publicly addressed the split, stating that YBNL was created to support young artists and that Asake had completed his journey with the label.
4. Mohbad and Marlian Records
The dispute between Mohbad and Marlian Records, owned by Naira Marley, became one of the most controversial artist-label conflicts in the Nigerian music industry. Mohbad’s troubles reportedly began when he attempted to change his manager and raised concerns about unpaid royalties and an unfavorable working environment. However, the label was unwilling to release him, leading to rising tensions.
Mohbad later released videos alleging that he had been physically assaulted by individuals associated with Marlian Records and suggested that Naira Marley should be held responsible for any harm done to him. The label denied these claims, attributing his accusations to alleged drug use. Following Mohbad’s untimely death, reports emerged that he had faced multiple instances of harassment after leaving the label, including disruptions at video shoots and concerts. The dispute brought attention to the challenges many young artists faced in their dealings with record labels.
5. Iyanya and Made Men Music Group (Triple MG)
Iyanya’s departure from Made Men Music Group (Triple MG), the label he co-founded with Ubi Franklin, was marked by controversy. Initially, the partnership appeared strong, with Iyanya achieving mainstream success while Franklin handled promotions. However, tensions emerged when Iyanya publicly accused Franklin of defrauding him over the years.
Franklin denied the allegations, and the dispute played out in the media for a while before public interest faded. After leaving Triple MG, Iyanya attempted to revive his career by signing with Don Jazzy’s Mavin Records, but his subsequent releases struggled to achieve commercial success.
6. Jaywon and Kennis Music
Jaywon’s fallout with Kennis Music, led by Kenny Ogungbe and Dayo Adeneye, remained largely private due to his limited social media presence. Despite his contract still being active, Jaywon sought a renegotiation, a move that was unacceptable to the label’s executives. In response, Kennis Music issued a directive to broadcast stations, barring them from playing any of Jaywon’s music, effectively stalling his career.
Following advice from industry insiders, Jaywon eventually apologized to the label’s leadership, which helped him move forward. However, he struggled to promote his music at the same level he had while under Kennis Music. A few years later, he relocated to the United States.
6. Brymo and Chocolate City
Brymo’s career was on the rise until he publicly announced his departure from Chocolate City via X, a move believed to have been influenced by external advice. He accused the label of failing to promote his debut album, Son of a Carpenter, and disregarding his artistic aspirations.
Chocolate City, however, claimed that Brymo had breached a five-year contract that required him to release three albums between 2011 and 2016. The label secured an injunction preventing him from releasing new music, which stalled his career. The legal battle dragged on, and by the time he officially left the label in 2013, he had lost much of the fan base he had built.
7. Humblesmith and N-Tyze Entertainment
Humblesmith, born Ekenedilichukwu Ijemba, rose to fame with his hit single Osinachi, which dominated the airwaves and led to a high-profile remix featuring Davido and Phyno. His growing success under N-Tyze Entertainment positioned him as a rising star in the Nigerian music industry. However, tensions later arose between him and the label’s CEO, Bob Kelly Ovie Williams, which ultimately led to his departure.
In 2020, Humblesmith publicly announced his exit from N-Tyze Entertainment, stating that his decision was based on allegations of improper documentation and financial mismanagement. He accused the label of mishandling funds and failing to provide the necessary support for his career growth. His departure was not smooth, as N-Tyze Entertainment countered his claims, asserting that Humblesmith's contract was still legally binding.
The label subsequently initiated legal proceedings against him, arguing that he had breached the terms of his agreement. The dispute resulted in a standoff that hindered his career momentum, as legal battles often complicate an artist’s ability to release new music and secure major collaborations.
8. Skales and Baseline Music
After parting ways with Empire Mates Entertainment (E.M.E) in 2014 when the label chose not to renew his contract, Skales, who had been signed alongside Wizkid, sought a fresh start with Baseline Music. Under his new label, Skales experienced a career resurgence, releasing hit singles such as Shake Body and his debut studio album Man of the Year, which helped solidify his position in the Nigerian music industry.
However, the relationship between Skales and Baseline Music began to deteriorate around 2016. Tensions escalated when the label accused the artist and his manager, Osagie Osarenkhoe, of financial mismanagement and fraud. The allegations led to their arrest, drawing significant media attention and sparking widespread speculation about the nature of the dispute.
Following his arrest, negotiations were held between both parties, leading to an eventual settlement. As part of the resolution, Skales was allowed to continue his contract with Baseline Music, but under a new management structure. Despite the legal troubles, he managed to release more projects under the label before eventually moving on to establish his independence in the music industry.
9. May D and Square Records
Another case of artists, having disputes with their record labels is the case of May D. May D, a talented singer and songwriter, was once affiliated with Square Records, the label owned by Nigerian R&B duo P-Square. During his time with the label, he contributed to several hit songs, most notably Chop My Money, which featured himself, P-Square, and Akon.
However, in 2012, his relationship with Square Records ended abruptly. May D later claimed that he had endured poor living conditions while working under the label. He stated that while his career initially showed promise, issues arose when formal contractual agreements were introduced. He alleged that the contract terms did not align with his vision, leading to disputes and his eventual departure.
P-Square, on the other hand, defended their decision, stating that they had always aimed to support young artists. They claimed the fallout occurred because May D wanted to be fully integrated into P-Square as a brand rather than remain a separate artist under Square Records. Following his exit, May D launched his own record label, Confam Entertainment, and pursued an independent career. However, he struggled to maintain the same commercial success he had while under Square Records.
10. Cynthia Morgan and Northside Entertainment
Cynthia Morgan, once a rising star in the Nigerian music industry, signed with Northside Entertainment in 2013, a label managed by Jude Okoye, the elder brother of the P-Square duo. With her dancehall and reggae fusion, she gained recognition through hit singles and was considered one of Nigeria’s most promising female artists.
However, her relationship with the label ended controversially. In 2020, Cynthia Morgan, who later rebranded as Madrina, resurfaced with claims that she had not been adequately promoted and was only allowed to shoot music videos without sufficient career support. She also alleged that the ongoing disputes between the Okoye brothers negatively impacted her growth.
Jude Okoye denied these allegations, stating that Cynthia Morgan owed him money for music video shoots and was never barred from using her stage name or accessing her social media accounts. The dispute escalated when she later issued a public apology, leading to speculation about the real cause of the fallout. Her exit from Northside Entertainment became one of the most discussed artists-record labels disputes in Nigeria.
11. Temmie Ovwasa and YBNL
Temmie Ovwasa, popularly known as the YBNL Princess, was signed to Olamide’s YBNL Nation with expectations of a successful career. However, her time with the label ended in controversy, as she later alleged that Olamide had restricted her artistic growth.
During an Instagram Live session, Ovwasa claimed that while Olamide provided her with a platform, he also hindered her progress by rejecting show offers and deals. She further accused him of blocking her from releasing songs and keeping her under tight control while she lived with his family.
She expressed frustration over being treated differently from male artists on the label, stating that her role felt more symbolic than functional. According to her, she was not given the same opportunities as her male counterparts. However, Olamide did not publicly respond in detail to these claims.
12. Vector and YSG Entertainment
Olanrewaju Ogunmefun, popularly known as Vector, achieved significant success while signed to YSG Entertainment, collaborating with international artists such as Jamaican singer Movado. Initially, he expressed satisfaction with the label, believing it provided the support needed to elevate his career.
However, in 2014, tensions arose when Vector accused YSG Entertainment of not investing enough in his career, forcing him to manage aspects of his promotion independently. The dispute escalated, with YSG Entertainment accusing him of breaching his contract. This led to his arrest by the police, and the label obtained an injunction preventing him from recording, performing, or making public appearances.
In response, Vector released several songs with subliminal jabs at the label. The legal battle significantly slowed his career, forcing a prolonged hiatus from music. After negotiations, Vector eventually apologized to YSG Entertainment, and both parties officially parted ways. Years later, Vector reflected on the fallout, admitting that miscommunication contributed to the situation. He acknowledged that the dispute had negatively impacted his career, costing him time and money as he was unable to release music for over a year. This remains on of the artists-record labels disputes in the industry.
13. D’Banj, Don Jazzy, and Mo’Hits
One of the most talked-about record label disputes in the Nigerian music industry was the split between Afrobeats star D’Banj and his former partner, Don Jazzy, co-owner of Mo’Hits Records. In 2012, their partnership ended after D’Banj joined Kanye West’s G.O.O.D Music label, following a deal that involved a collaboration between Mo’Hits, G.O.O.D Music, and Def Jam Records. According to D’Banj, the deal was meant to extend beyond him to include Don Jazzy’s production expertise. However, Don Jazzy reportedly disagreed with the idea of relocating to the United States, believing that they were already "kings" in Nigeria and did not need to start over as unknown artists abroad.
The split became official in March 2012 when Don Jazzy took to X to announce that D’Banj had left Mo’Hits Records. Reports suggested that the breakup was primarily due to a clash of interests between both parties. While D’Banj pursued an international career, Don Jazzy remained in Nigeria and later established Mavin Records, which went on to become one of the most successful record labels in Africa despite the disputes with artists in the past.
14. YCee and Tinny Entertainment
Nigerian rapper YCee, real name Oludemilade Alejo, officially confirmed his exit from Tinny Entertainment in early 2019 after years of contractual disputes. However, tensions had surfaced as early as 2017 when he criticized FreeMe Digital and Michael Ugwu of Sony Music West Africa, accusing them of exploiting artists.
In 2018, after Tinny Entertainment’s CEO, Arokodare Tinny Timilehin, celebrated 100 million streams, YCee alleged that none of the artists received earnings from the milestone. He claimed he was undercompensated for six years and had to forfeit the rights to hit songs like Jagaban and Juice. He also expressed concerns for former labelmates like Bella Alubo, who remained under contract.
YCee had previously signed a distribution deal with Sony Music Africa in 2016, leading to the release of his debut EP, The First Wave. However, conflicts between YCee, Tinny Entertainment, and Sony Music led to legal disputes, and Tinny later reclaimed full rights to his music.
Following his departure, YCee warned upcoming artists about unfair contracts and continued his independent career, teasing new music under his brand. His fallout with Tinny Entertainment remains one of Nigeria’s notable artists-record labels disputes.
— ZAHEER! (@iam_YCee) September 18, 2019
16. Harrysong and Five Star Music
Singer-songwriter Harrysong, known for his contributions to Five Star Music, was believed to be a key creative force behind some of the label’s biggest hits. He allegedly wrote multiple successful songs for the label, which was owned by E-Money and his brother Kcee. However, tensions arose between Harrysong and Five Star Music, eventually leading to his departure.
Following his exit, the situation escalated when Harrysong was arrested by the police over allegations of contract breaches. Though the details of the contract dispute were not fully disclosed, the incident attracted significant media attention. Industry figures intervened to de-escalate the situation, but for Harrysong, the dispute marked the definitive end of his association with Five Star Music. In 2016, he launched his own label, Alterplate Music, and continued his career as an independent artist.
17. Runtown and Eric Manny Entertainment
The fallout between Runtown and his former record label, Eric Manny Entertainment, is another case of artists and record labels disputes in the music industry. It was a widely publicized legal battle. Runtown signed a two-year contract with the label in 2014, and after the release of his debut album Ghetto University, he was reportedly asked to extend his contract for another two years.
Tensions escalated when Eric Manny Entertainment accused Runtown of signing performance deals and attending events without the label’s approval, which was considered a breach of contract. Runtown, on the other hand, alleged that he was not receiving fair compensation for his work and claimed that he faced threats from the label.
In response, Eric Manny Entertainment obtained a court injunction preventing him from recording, performing, or embarking on a planned U.S. tour. However, Runtown defied the injunction and continued performing abroad. After a prolonged legal battle, he secured a court order granting him full independence to distribute his music without interference from the label.
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