Nigerian music artist Shallipopi dropped a bombshell on December 11, 2024, announcing his dramatic split from Dapper Music through a provocative Instagram press release.
The artist levelled serious accusations against the music label. He alleged fundamental breaches of trust and financial impropriety.
At the core of Shallipopi’s claims was a controversial publishing deal with Dvpper Digital. This is a subsidiary company founded by Damilola Akinwunnmi, whom Shallipopi identified as Dapper.
He asserted that the label compelled him to sign this agreement under dubious circumstances, suggesting a potential conflict of interest.
The artist’s most damning allegation centred on financial transparency. Shallipopi claimed Dapper Music withheld comprehensive financial details and coerced him into surrendering 30% of his earnings indefinitely.
These accusations painted the label as potentially exploitative and untrustworthy.
Dapper Music swiftly countered these allegations with a robust and detailed response. The label categorically rejected every claim as shocking and completely unfounded.
They emphasised their commitment to contractual clarity and artist protection, highlighting that all agreements include full legal representation to safeguard artists’ interests.
Addressing the financial transparency concerns directly, Dapper Music disclosed that they had fully cooperated with Shallipopi and his auditors.
They referenced a recent meeting on December 9, 2024, specifically convened to address the artist’s request for a comprehensive financial statement.
Regarding the 30% earnings claim, the label provided crucial context. They clarified that no perpetual earnings clause existed in Shallipopi’s contract.
Instead, the 30% figure represented a standard management fee aligned with global industry practices, which the artist reportedly accepted voluntarily.
The label concluded its statement with a defiant stance, describing the allegations as premeditated, false, and potentially motivated by external parties envious of the company’s success.
Dapper Music remained open to legal recourse, signalling its readiness to defend its reputation in a court of law.
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