Notjustok.com (NJO) has started its own podcast show titled Music and Then Some (M.A.T.S.). The podcast is co-hosted by NJO’s Ovie O and Renny by Nature. It is an engaging show and provides first-hand insider knowledge of the industry’s shenanigans. In the third episode of the podcast, M.A.T.S. hosts its first guest, Adegboyega Ogunlesi aka Adey. Adey produced arguably one of the biggest songs of 2017 Ycee’s ‘juice’ featuring music producer and artist Maleek Berry.
In the interview, Adey explained how the song was meant for Davido and Mayorkun but both passed on it. He also explains how he messed up with the branding of his song because he placed Maleek Berry’s name at the introduction, rather than the end, where it was initially placed. This action was a mistake on his part because it has caused confusion and makes people believe Berry is the producer of the song.
He also claims that his credit in the song was “lowered” in the “master of the song” and “(he) didn’t get to hear it.” When asked if he was benefiting from the song “in any shape or form,” he said, “no.” He explained that he was paid an initial lump sum fee from Tinny Entertainment, Ycee’s label. However, royalty payments due him from the song remain unpaid.
“I’ve been able to achieve so much outside of the opportunities available to me from that song. Obviously, it helped me to be able to add a number one record to my list… But in terms of benefiting from that song, financially I would say no.”
He promised legal action will commence if he is not paid his royalties.
“It’s a funny one because both parties believe they are right and what is actually right is what is in black and white on paper. So, I don’t want to dwell on it too much or stay on it too much but the fact of the matter remains that if I am not making money from that song, it is a disservice to me.”
Ycee’s Tinny Entertainment has a relationship with Sony Africa. Adey is managed by Temple Management.
My take? Whether Adey is owed any royalties depends on the kind of contract he signed. What did he sign?
Listen to his statements. Start at 33:00 mark.
Warning: Strong language used.
