In a significant development in the Nigerian music industry, Crown Uzama, popularly known as Shallipopi, has officially ended his association with Dapper Music and its affiliate, Dvpper Digital. The announcement was made on December 11, 2024, through Shallipopi’s social media channels, where he cited financial mismanagement, breach of trust, and lack of transparency as the primary reasons for his decision¹²³.
Shallipopi, who rose to fame in 2023 with his hit single “Elon Musk,” signed with Dapper Music the same year. The label, owned by Damilola Akinwunmi, also known as Dapper, has been instrumental in Shallipopi’s rise to stardom. However, the relationship soured over time due to alleged financial exploitation and mishandling of funds.
In his statement, Shallipopi expressed his frustration over the lack of transparency regarding his finances. He claimed that advances given to Dapper Music by Dvpper Digital were squandered without his knowledge, leaving him in debt. Despite repeated requests for financial records, Shallipopi stated that he was kept in the dark about his earnings.
Shallipopi also accused Dapper Music of attempting to lock him into a perpetual contract that would entitle the label to 30% of his earnings indefinitely, even after their professional relationship ended. He described this as not only unfair but also exploitative and cruel.
Interestingly, Shallipopi is not the only artist to have parted ways with Dapper Music recently. Seyi Vibez, another prominent Nigerian artist, also ended his association with the label earlier this year. Seyi Vibez, known for his hit single “Chance (Na Ham),” cited similar issues of financial mismanagement and lack of transparency. This pattern raises questions about the management practices at Dapper Music and whether other artists might follow suit.
The Pluto presido emphasized that his decision to part ways with Dapper Music was not just about his personal grievances but also about advocating for fair treatment for all artists. He highlighted the importance of integrity, fairness, and respect in the music industry, urging other artists to stand up against exploitation.
Despite the challenges, Shallipopi reassured his fans that this decision would not hinder his creativity. He announced the launch of his own record label, Plutomania Records, and introduced Zerry DL and Tega Boi as the flagship artists under his new label.
Could this be the beginning of a broader movement among artists seeking greater control and fairness in their careers?
Copies of his statement bellow:
