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10 Popular Nigerian Artists Who Left Their First Record Labels

businesselitesafrica.com 2025/2/9

The Nigerian music industry is filled with stories of growth, fame, and occasionally, controversy. One of the most common challenges artists face is their relationship with record labels.

Disputes over contracts, creative freedom, or finances often lead to splits. Here’s a look at some popular Nigerian artists who parted ways with their first record labels and the events that unfolded.

Wizkid – EME Records

Ayodeji Balogun, famously known as Wizkid, started his journey under Banky W’s EME Records in 2009. He released his debut album, Superstar, which skyrocketed him to fame. However, cracks in their relationship began to surface. 

In 2014, Wizkid left EME, citing the need for personal growth and independence. While Banky W later revealed that Wizkid didn’t complete his contractual obligations, the Essence crooner moved on to start his label, Starboy Entertainment, solidifying his place as an international superstar.

Kizz Daniel – G-Worldwide

Kizz Daniel, formerly known as Kiss Daniel, was signed to G-Worldwide in 2013. He gained prominence with his breakout single, Woju. However, the label’s restrictive policies became a significant hurdle, including a ban on collaborations and the inability to use his stage name after leaving. 

In 2017, Kizz Daniel parted ways with G-Worldwide amidst legal battles, launching his own label, Flyboy Inc., and continuing his string of hits.

Brymo – Chocolate City

Brymo, known for his unique sound and storytelling, joined Chocolate City in 2010. He gained fame with songs like Ara. However, his relationship with the label soured after accusations of inadequate promotion and creative stifling. Brymo exited the label in 2013, leading to legal disputes. 

Runtown – Eric Many Entertainment

Douglas Jack Agu, popularly known as Runtown, signed with Eric Many Entertainment in 2014. Hits like Gallardo brought him acclaim, but trouble began when he accused the label of withholding royalties and restricting his career growth. The situation escalated to court battles in 2016, and Runtown eventually broke free, paving the way for his independent projects.

Cynthia Morgan – Northside Entertainment

Cynthia Morgan signed with Jude Okoye’s Northside Entertainment in 2013, releasing hits like German Juice. However, the relationship soured as she claimed the label withheld her stage name and social media accounts. In a viral 2020 Instagram live session, Cynthia Morgan opened up about her struggles, alleging that the contract damaged her career.

May D – Square Records

May D was a promising act under Square Records, run by the Psquare brothers. Signed in 2012, he contributed to their success but left the label amidst claims of poor treatment. May D alleged he lived in substandard conditions, sparking a public fallout. He moved on to start Confam Entertainment and has since made efforts to rebuild his career.

Temmie Ovwasa – YBNL

Known as YBNL’s first lady, Temmie Ovwasa joined Olamide’s label in 2016. While her debut created a buzz, she later accused the label of hindering her career. According to Temmie, Olamide blocked opportunities and refused to release her projects. She left YBNL in frustration, expressing her grievances publicly.

Mohbad – Marlian Records

The late Mohbad, a former signee of Marlian Records, had a turbulent exit. He accused the label of financial exploitation and physical threats. Videos he posted showed altercations with the team, which led to a strained relationship with Naira Marley. Mohbad’s tragic passing only intensified the scrutiny of his experiences under Marlian Records.

Ycee – Tinny Entertainment

Ycee joined Tinny Entertainment in 2012 and rose to fame with hits like Jagaban. However, his fallout with the label became public in 2019 when he accused Tinny Entertainment’s CEO of disregarding the artists’ contributions. Ycee exited the label and has since focused on his independent projects.

Asake – YBNL

Asake, one of Nigeria’s fast-rising stars, joined YBNL in 2022 and quickly became a household name. However, after just three years, reports surfaced that Asake had parted ways with the label. Speculation grew when he removed YBNL from his social media bio and unfollowed Olamide. Despite the split, it appears the separation was amicable, with both parties agreeing to a royalty arrangement.

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