When young acts set out to chase their passion for music, one of dreams they have is to be signed to a top record label. This is simply because record labels usually have sufficient resources (at their disposal) to invest in the careers of artists.
In the Nigerian music industry, we have seen the occurrence of artists quitting their labels immediately their contracts expire. Although it’s not necessarily a bad thing, it can sometimes be a thing of wonder especially when it looks like the relationship between the artist and label is smooth before they abruptly part ways.
Below is a list of artists who have left their record labels;
Kizz Daniel
Kizz Daniel
Sometime in 2017, Kizz Daniel (who was formerly known as Kiss Daniel) quit his record label G-Worldwide to start his own movement Flyboy inc. It came as a surprise to many music fans who could have sworn that the Afropop act still had years to spend under the label.
Tekno
Tekno
After spending a couple years with MMMG (Made Men Music Group), Tekno exited the label in early 2019 to start Cartel Music. Tekno enjoyed nationwide success under MMMG and it was highly unexpected that he would leave at the time he did.
Lil Kesh
Lil Kesh
When Lil Kesh made an appearance in the mainstream scene, many quickly referred to him as Olamide’s prodigy. He was seen as a prospect to take over from Olamide but the Efejoku crooner shocked everyone by moving 0n to push his own label YAGI Music.
Tiwa Savage
Tiwa Savage
Earlier today, Africa’s number one female musician Tiwa Savage announced a new deal she signed with Universal Music Group. She also made it known that she has officially left Mavin records. It was a mutual agreement between both parties – Tiwa Savage and Mavin Records.
Runtown
Runtown
After an almost endless battle with Eric Many, Runtown left the record label to begin his own journey as a label owner. He is currently flying under his own label which is known as Soundgod Music Group.
Reekado Banks
Reekado Banks
It came as a huge shock to many when Reekado announced that he was leaving Mavin records. He quit the label to start his own company with his brother (and manager) Temi.
Simi
Simi
Some days back, it was reported that Simi left her label X3M music after her contract expired. However, not much is known about her next move.
Ycee
Ycee
Before the rapper quit Tinny Music officially, there had been a disagreement between Ycee and the label owner. Rumors had initially surfaced that the rapper was tired of his deal and couldn’t wait to put it behind him.