Popular Nigerian singer Ayorinde Mafoluku, known as Ayo Maff, is locked in a bitter dispute with his record label, Tunesbid Limited, over alleged violations of their contract…CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
In a statement issued by the label’s CEO, Precious Okolie, Tunesbid claimed it had heavily invested in Ayo Maff’s career including the promotion of singles like Street Anthem, 7 Days, and Dealer.
However, the label alleged that the artiste and his team secretly negotiated a distribution deal with Empire Distribution without their knowledge, despite ongoing talks involving all parties.
According to the label, Empire had offered to distribute two EPs and potentially a full-length album, along with an upfront payment to Tunesbid.
Although contract documents were sent for execution, Ayo Maff’s team Oyefeso Oluwamayowa Olumide, Okolie Arnold Chiedu, and Oyefeso Ayotunde allegedly bypassed Tunesbid and engaged Empire independently.
The label further claimed that after Tunesbid financed recordings for the proposed EP, Ayo Maff’s team left without submitting the tracks.
They then sent letters (dated May 17 and May 30, 2024) declaring their intention to terminate the agreement less than six months after signing.
Tunesbid stated it made several attempts to settle the matter amicably but was forced to consider legal action after what it called a clear breach of contract. Their legal team, led by Zaeda Oracle, is now pursuing possible legal remedies.
In a counterclaim, Ayo Maff’s manager, Ayotunde Oyefeso, accused the label of failing to meet its financial obligations.
He said the contract stipulated a ₦100 million advance, to be paid in ₦25 million quarterly instalments.
However, according to Oyefeso, the label never paid any portion of the amount except for a single ₦100 cash gift from the CEO.
Oyefeso also alleged that the singer, despite his success, was left without accommodation and had to squat with friends. He claimed the label took 100% of royalties and performance fees, leaving the artiste with no income.
Additionally, he said the music video for Dealer, which featured Fireboy DML, was funded by Fireboy not the label. He also revealed that after a failed mediation, the label demanded ₦400 million in damages.
Responding to the manager’s claims, Tunesbid insisted it had made significant financial investments and that Ayo Maff remained legally bound by the existing contract.
The label warned individuals or entities considering deals with the artiste or his team now operating under OceanStreet Creative Limited that doing so could lead to legal consequences.
“Any collaboration with Ayo Maff or his management is done at your own risk,” the label stated. “We urge promoters and entertainment companies to cease all dealings immediately.”…CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
