Shallipopi confirms split with Dapper Music

Rapper Shallipopi has officially parted ways with Dapper Music, citing a breach of trust and lack of transparency as the reasons for his decision.

After nearly three years of collaboration, Shallipopi, who emerged in the mainstream in 2022, announced the split in a heartfelt post on his Instagram page on December 11, 2024.

His announcement came after reports suggested a division, particularly after Shallipopi unfollowed Dapper Music’s founder and CEO, Damilola Akinwunmi, on Instagram.

Describing the decision as one of the hardest he has ever made, Shallipopi addressed his fans with determination. “I come to you today with a heavy heart but an unshakable resolve. I’m Crown Uzama, your Shallipopi, and I have made one of the toughest decisions of my career. Today, I am officially ending my agreements with Dapper Music and Dapper Digital. This was not a choice made lightly, but it was necessary after my trust was breached, my finances mismanaged, and my rights as an artist disregarded.

“This is bigger than just me. It’s about every artist and creator who pours their soul into their work, only to face betrayal and exploitation from those who should be looking out for them. It’s about standing up for fairness, integrity, and the respect we all deserve.”

Shallipopi also accused Dapper Music of a conflict of interest, claiming the label pressured him into signing a publishing deal with one of its subsidiary companies, Dapper Digital. “Dapper Music and Entertainment Limited, my management company, pushed me into a deal with Dapper Digital Limited, another company owned by the same individuals. Instead of prioritizing my growth, they prioritized their own profits, putting my career and dreams at risk.”

Furthermore, he criticized the label for a lack of transparency regarding the use and distribution of his earnings. Despite repeated requests for accurate financial records, Shallipopi stated he was denied access to vital information. “I’ve worked hard, and like anyone, I deserve to know where my money is going. Can you imagine not knowing how much you’ve earned or where it has gone? This is devastating and unacceptable.”

In a serious allegation, Shallipopi claimed that Dapper Music attempted to lock him into a “forever contract” that would entitle the label to 30% of his revenues indefinitely. “They tried to bind me to a contract that would allow them to take 30% of my earnings forever, even after we parted ways. Even after they no longer represent me, they want to continue taking 30% of my earnings in perpetuity. That’s not just unfair; it’s exploitation, and it is cruel.”

While Shallipopi’s time with Dapper Music has ended on a sour note, it should be noted that their partnership led to mutual successes, as Shallipopi rose to stardom while the label solidified its status as one of the leading labels in Nigerian music.