Nigerian music artist Crown Uzama, widely recognized as Shallipopi, has declared his intention to end his contracts with Dapper Music and Dvpper Digital.
In a post on his X account on Wednesday, Shallipopi explained the rationale behind his decision, citing financial mismanagement, a lack of transparency, and what he considers exploitative contracts that were forced upon him.
Titled “A Message from Shallipopi: Standing Up for Artists and Creators Everywhere,” the statement expressed his emotional struggle and firm resolve. “I address you with a heavy heart but unwavering determination. I’m Crown Uzama, your Shallipopi, and I’ve made one of the most difficult choices of my career.
“Today, I’m officially terminating my agreements with Dapper Music and Dvpper Digital. This decision was not made lightly; however, I had to act after my trust was compromised, my finances mishandled, and my rights as an artist overlooked.”
Shallipopi mentioned that his management company, Dapper Music, had “pushed me into a contract with Dvpper Digital Limited, another company run by the same individuals,” which he claims prioritized their profits over his career growth, jeopardizing his aspirations.
According to him, this arrangement led to an advance in his name and catalog, which resulted in financial mismanagement.
“Dvpper Digital Limited, acting as a distributor, would offer advances to Dapper Music and Entertainment Limited under my name and catalog… This debt has now accumulated to a considerable amount that we have yet to determine,” he noted.
Shallipopi also expressed dissatisfaction with the opacity surrounding his earnings. “I’ve worked diligently, and like anyone, I should know where my money is allocated. Despite numerous requests, I was refused access to accurate financial records.”
Alongside this, he criticized the “unfair forever deal” that Dapper Music allegedly tried to impose on him.
“They sought to bind me to a contract that would entitle them to 30% of my earnings indefinitely, even after our separation,” he stated. “They aim to continue taking 30% of my income perpetually. This is not only unfair; it’s exploitation and it’s cruel.”
In his message, Shallipopi emphasized that his actions extend beyond his concerns and represent a larger struggle for fairness and respect for all artists and creators.
“It’s for every artist and creator who invests their soul into their craft, only to encounter betrayal and exploitation from those who should support them. It’s about advocating for fairness, integrity, and the respect we all deserve,” he asserted.
He reassured his fans that this setback would not deter him from making music, but instead inspire him to create even more for his supporters.
In November, it was reported that Shallipopi had removed Dapper Music from his bio and unfollowed the label’s head, signaling the likely end of their collaboration. This split coincided with Shallipopi’s recent launch of his own label, Plutomania Records.
