The music industry is no stranger to stories of artists clashing with their record labels, often due to financial mismanagement, exploitative contracts, and creative control issues. The recent departures of Nigerian artists Shallipopi, Seyi Vibez, and Seyi Vibez’s signee Muyeez from Dapper Music have reignited these conversations.
These artists cited fund mismanagement and contract disagreements as primary reasons for leaving the label, which had played a significant role in their rise to fame.
Seyi Vibez’s situation has drawn significant attention due to his prolific output over the past two years. The artist, who burst onto the scene with hits that solidified his position in the industry, released an astonishing six projects in less than two years.
While this pace may have pleased fans, it also raised questions about the toll it took on his creative process. It is believed that contractual obligations pushed him to maintain this unsustainable schedule. Such pressure often arises when artists, in their desperation to secure a deal, sign contracts without fully understanding the long-term implications.

The break from Dapper Music was marked by public gestures, including the removal of the label’s name from social media profiles and the announcement of his independent status. This move coincided with the establishment of his label, Vibez INC, signaling his intent to take control of his career and create a more empowering environment for other artists. However, the circumstances leading to this decision reveal broader systemic issues within the music industry.
For years, many artists have found themselves trapped in “360 deals” or other restrictive agreements that allow labels to take a cut of all revenue streams, including merchandise, tours, and endorsements.
These deals often favor the labels, leaving artists with limited earnings and even less autonomy. While such arrangements might provide the initial funding necessary for an artist to launch their career, they often lead to discontent as artists grow and realize the full extent of the restrictions placed upon them.
The departure of Shallipopi and Muyeez from Dapper Music further underscores the need for transparency and fairness in the artist-label relationship. Both artists cited financial mismanagement and operational issues as key factors in their decision to leave.
Although the details remain speculative, the broader narrative reflects a recurring theme: labels prioritizing profit over the well-being and artistic growth of their signees.

These incidents highlight the importance of legal guidance and due diligence for artists entering into agreements. Young talents, eager to gain recognition, often overlook the fine print of their contracts, focusing instead on the immediate opportunities provided by the label.
Unfortunately, this haste can lead to long-term dissatisfaction, as seen in the cases of many Nigerian and global artists who have publicly criticized their labels.
While record labels undeniably play a crucial role in artist development—providing resources, marketing, and industry connections—the evolving landscape of music distribution is challenging the traditional model. Streaming platforms, social media, and digital tools now allow artists to connect directly with their audiences, reducing dependence on traditional labels.
This shift is empowering more musicians to pursue independent careers, as demonstrated by Seyi Vibez’s decision to establish Vibez INC. By taking control of their music and revenue streams, artists are reclaiming their agency and fostering a more sustainable creative environment.
However, independence comes with its challenges. Managing one’s career without the support of a label requires significant resources, industry knowledge, and strength. It also places the responsibility of financial and logistical planning squarely on the artist’s shoulders. For many, this is a daunting prospect, which explains why so many continue to seek traditional label partnerships despite the risks involved.

The recent split between these artists and Dapper Music serves as both a cautionary tale and a call to action. For aspiring musicians, it is a reminder to prioritize understanding over desperation when entering into contracts.
Seeking legal advice and negotiating terms that ensure fairness can go a long way in avoiding future conflicts. For the industry at large, these incidents highlight the need for more equitable practices that prioritize the well-being of artists.
The stories of Shallipopi, Seyi Vibez, and Muyeez reflect a pivotal moment in Nigerian music. Their experiences shed light on the challenges faced by many artists and emphasize the importance of autonomy, fairness, and mutual respect in the artist-label relationship. As fans continue to enjoy the music these artists create, the lessons from their journeys may well shape the future of the industry for the better.
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