Damilola “Dapper” Akinwunmi, CEO of Dapper Music & Entertainment, has spoken out against claims of contract scandals involving several artists under his label. The allegations have been circulating online, with some accusing Dapper Music of exploiting its artists.
A Response to the Scandals
Damilola “Dapper” Akinwunmi, CEO of Dapper Music & Entertainment, has fired back at claims of contract scandals involving several artists under his label. In a lengthy statement, Dapper addressed the allegations head-on, providing context and evidence to counter the claims. According to Dapper, every artist under his label was sent their contract in advance, with time to read and understand the terms before signing.
Facts and Figures
Dapper emphasized that the terms of the contracts were negotiated rather than presented, and that every artist was accompanied by their own legal counsel during the signing process. He cited the example of Seyi Vibez, who was accompanied by his own lawyer during the first meeting. Dapper also highlighted the company's investment in the artists, including recording, production, artwork, marketing, and touring. He mentioned that two music videos shot in America cost the company $52,000, and that a trip to the United States for recording camps and video shoots cost over $200,000.
Addressing Specific Claims
Dapper addressed one specific claim directly, which has been repeated so often that it has been accepted as true by many. The claim is that the artists did not know what they were signing, and that they were exploited by the company. Dapper rejected this claim, stating that the artists were businessmen making a deal, and that they knew what they were signing. He emphasized that the company had done the work of a label, handling administration, logistics, and day-to-day operations, and that the growth of the artists was not accidental but built deliberately by a team.
A Friend in Need
Dapper also mentioned that when one of the artists, Shallipopi, was arrested, the company chose not to walk away. Instead, they instructed counsel and paid for his legal representation, and also paid for the representation of a friend of his who was picked up at the same time. This move, Dapper said, was not out of charity, but because the company believed in the artist and wanted to support him.
The Work of a Label
Dapper emphasized that the company had done the work of a label, handling the administration, logistics, and day-to-day operations that keep a career moving. They provided A&R, brought in songwriters, secured features, and built the strategy behind the releases, campaigns, and timing. This work, Dapper said, is not visible from the outside, but it is the reason careers moved as fast as they did.
Conclusion
Damilola “Dapper” Akinwunmi's statement has provided a detailed response to the allegations of contract scandals involving several artists under his label. By providing context and evidence, Dapper has sought to counter the claims and provide a clear understanding of the company's actions. The question now is what happens next, and whether the allegations will be dropped or pursued further.
Source: Pulse.ng
