LAGOS, Nigeria(VOICE OF NAIJA)- Nigerian singer T.I Blaze has joined the growing controversy surrounding Dapper Music, accusing the label’s owner, Damilola Akinwunmi, of failing to explain how N1.2 billion allegedly linked to artistes royalties and licensing revenue became unaccounted for.
T.I Blaze made the allegations in a post on X while questioning the management of music catalogues and royalty payments involving Dapper Music.
The “Sometimes” singer also raised questions about the role of Virgin Music in the arrangement, particularly over its alleged share of revenue from the business.
He demanded an explanation of how Virgin Music became involved in a deal where it was reportedly entitled to 30 percent of the proceeds.
“How did Virgin Music get into a business where you’re supposed to take 30 percent and bounce, from whose cut is Virgin taking their bag? … how did 1.2 billion naira go unexplained. Dapper Music come and answer?” T.I Blaze said.
Virgin Music is a global music distribution and artist services division owned by Universal Music Group.
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In Nigeria, it is headed by executive Olukorede “Kay” Ikazoboh, and supports prominent local independent labels and artists like Dapper and Reekado Banks.
Beyond the alleged missing funds, T.I Blaze accused Dapper Music of licensing another person’s intellectual property without reaching a mutual agreement.
The singer suggested that the situation was a result of greed, warning that the label had pushed its relationship with artistes too far.
“Fuck Ripper Music … Who dey licenses another person intellectual property without mutual agreement? Dapper your cup don finally full,” he wrote.
T.I Blaze also reflected on the contributions of artistes and others who helped generate the money, accusing the business of betraying those who played a major role in its success.
“When you get so drunk on your dreams and can’t fight greed spirit, betrayed those that make the Bag primarily. you’ll be that colorful butterfly that goes back to being a caterpillar,” T.I Blaze stated.
His allegations come amid serious claims against Dapper Music by Seyi Vibez and Shallipopi, alleging betrayal and exploitation.
Dapper Music, Akinwunmi and Virgin Music have not responded to the specific allegations contained in T.I Blaze’s post.
