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Let’s talk about the one decision that could make or break your music career: signing a record deal.
I get it—when a label offers you a deal, it feels like the dream is finally happening. The promise of fame, global stages, and big bucks is hard to resist. But to be honest, it’s also the riskiest gamble you’ll ever take.
Why? Because a bad deal could trap you in a nightmare.
Let’s take a few examples from recent history:
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Kizz Daniel thought he was on his way to stardom when he signed with G-Worldwide. But his contract was so restrictive, he couldn’t even collaborate freely or keep his name. It took a messy legal battle and years of frustration to break free.
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Stonebwoy had his fair share of drama with Zylofon Music. Creative control and management disputes almost derailed his career at its peak.
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Runtown? He had to fight tooth and nail to escape his contract with Eric Many Entertainment, delaying his music releases and momentum.
The pattern is clear: bad contracts don’t just waste your time; they waste your potential.
But here’s the thing—signing a deal isn’t bad. It just needs to be the right deal. That means understanding what’s on the table before you sign.
Protect yourself taking three steps:
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Know What You Own: If the label owns your masters, they own your music. Think about that.
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Get a Music Lawyer: Not a friend who dabbles in law. A real entertainment lawyer who can sniff out hidden traps.
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Ask Tough Questions: How much are you really getting? What’s your cut? What happens if things go south?
Ultimately, record deals are not all in all. There’s a ton of artists who built a solid fan base before signing with a major label. Platforms like Audiomack, Boomplay, and YouTube are already in your corner.
On a final note, let me say this:
Your music is your legacy. Don’t gamble it away. Play smart, and build leverage so when the big offers come, you’re calling the shots.