Music and entertainment company Dapper Music, owned by Hilda Baci’s boyfriend Damilola Akinwunmi, well known as Dapper, has responded to allegations made by rapper Shallipopi regarding breach of trust and financial transparency.
On Wednesday, Shallipopi announced his departure from Dapper Music, accusing the label of failing to provide clear financial details and tying him to an unfavorable publishing deal with its subsidiary, Dvpper Digital.
The rapper also claimed he was made to give up 30% of his earnings “in perpetuity.”
In a statement titled “Addressing Recent Allegations with Transparency and Integrity,” Dapper Music refuted Shallipopi’s claims, describing them as “premeditated, false, calculated and sponsored attacks.”
The company maintained that no agreements exist binding Shallipopi’s future earnings indefinitely, clarifying that their contracts are standard in the recording industry and tied only to services provided during the contract term.
On the financial allegations, the label said, “We have provided all parties with full accounting via our accounting system. We are surprised by Mr. Crown Uzama’s false claims, especially as we are currently cooperating fully with the auditors he has engaged.”
Dapper Music also addressed claims involving another artist, Muyeez, stating it was false that the artist signed a contract as a minor. The label explained that Muyeez’s guardian and father, Moshood Basheer, signed the agreement on his behalf with witnesses present.
The company defended its 30% management commission, describing it as an industry-standard arrangement willingly agreed to by artists. It further highlighted the significant financial investment required to develop emerging talent in a challenging market with “lower royalty payouts compared to other regions.”
Dapper Music emphasised its commitment to fairness and transparency, noting that Shallipopi was offered an opportunity to “review and renegotiate the terms with full legal representation” following the success of his debut album.
Reaffirming its integrity, the label vowed to seek legal redress, stating, “We intend to approach a court of competent jurisdiction to address this matter and the individuals behind the smear campaign.”
