Nigerian rapper Crown Uzama, widely known as Shallipopi, has set social media ablaze following his dramatic split from Dapper Music. The rising star, whose partnership with the label propelled him to fame, has accused Dapper Music of betrayal, financial exploitation, and coercive contracts.
In an emotional Instagram post, Shallipopi described the separation as “the most painful” decision of his career, revealing that the fallout goes beyond personal grievances. He called it a wake-up call for artists enduring similar exploitation within the music industry.
Among the shocking claims, Shallipopi alleged that Dapper Music forced him into a publishing deal under its subsidiary, Dvpper Digital, granting the label extensive control over his creative and financial rights. He also accused the label of withholding financial records and attempting to lock him into a so-called “forever contract” that demanded 30% of his earnings indefinitely—even after the partnership ended.
They tried to lock me into a contract where they’d take 30% of my earnings forever. That’s not just unfair; it’s exploitation and cruel,
Shallipopi wrote.
The revelations have ignited heated debates online, with fans and industry insiders questioning the ethics of artist-label dynamics. Shallipopi’s courageous stand is being hailed as a potential turning point in the fight for fairness and transparency in the Nigerian music industry. Many hope his story will inspire other artists to challenge exploitative practices and demand more equitable contracts.
