For context, I’m also aware that just last Thursday, a Federal High Court in Lagos has issued a warrant for the arrest of her former boss and owner of Eezee Concepts, Mr. Ezekiel Onyedikachukwu. This, according to the EFCC was as a result of a petition from Min. Mercy Chinwo against the label boss, where he was accused of receiving royalties from her digital platforms and events valued to be approximately $345,000, without disclosing the transactions.
I won’t premise myself on the backdrop of their conflicts. I would rather take a dive against sensations that had beclouded the cognition of many. Eezee Concept is a business enterprise, and every establishment of such has terms stated in their contracts, it’s the responsibility of anyone entering such to carefully peruse the terms as well as its choice of words, before appending your signature on such. To exit contracts and start exploiting sensations isn’t a step in the right direction.
The gospel music industry in Nigeria has witnessed significant growth over the years, with artists gaining international recognition and platforms for their ministry. At the heart of this ecosystem are gospel record labels, organizations dedicated to producing, promoting, and managing gospel artists. However, like any industry, the operations of these labels and the contracts they offer profoundly impact the careers of gospel artists, as they come with their strengths and challenges.
Gospel record labels play a pivotal role in discovering and nurturing talent. Many artists have found their voices and audiences through these platforms. A person like myself didn’t know Chinwo ahead of her deal with the Eezee Concept. I’m sure the same is the fate of many others. However, the landscape is still maturing, and several issues warrant attention.
Limited Resources: Many gospel record labels in Nigeria are emerging and operate with limited resources, unlike their secular counterparts. While some have noble intentions of promoting the gospel through music, their financial and managerial constraints often limit their ability to provide adequate support to artists. This often results in subpar production quality, minimal marketing efforts, and limited reach.
Lack of Professionalism: Several gospel labels lack the professionalism seen in mainstream record labels. Contracts are often poorly drafted, and there is sometimes an absence of clear communication regarding rights, royalties, and expectations. This lack of structure can lead to misunderstandings and strained relationships between the labels and their artists, an example under discourse fits in.
Focus on Profit over Ministry: While gospel music is a ministry, it is also a business. Unfortunately, some labels prioritize profit over the spiritual and personal growth of their artists. This often leads to decisions that undermine the ministry aspect of gospel music, such as emphasizing commercial appeal over spiritual content. Some even go as far as exerting excessive control over an artist’s creative direction, limiting their freedom to express their unique message.
Short-term Contracts and Artist Exploitation: Many gospel artists sign contracts without fully understanding the terms. These contracts can sometimes be exploitative, leaving the artist with little control over their music, branding, or earnings. Some artists (a case study of Mercy Chinwo) have had to part ways with labels on bitter terms, resulting in legal disputes or career stagnation.
One would expect gospel labels to operate with higher ethical standards given their spiritual orientation. Unfortunately, cases of unfair contracts, lack of transparency and poor treatment of artists have emerged in some instances, while some find themselves locked into agreements they cannot easily exit, even if the relationship with the label sours.
Before Entering a Contract…
Contracts, as good as it seems is a double-edged sword, entering into a contract with a record label can be a blessing or a burden, depending on the terms of the agreement. Many gospel artists sign contracts without fully understanding their implications, leading to disputes down the line. If you’re an artist considering signing with a gospel record label, don’t just be excited that a record label is signing you, I will painstakingly unveil some critical considerations for you to make.
Understand the Contract: Never sign a contract without understanding its terms. Seek the counsel of a legal professional or someone knowledgeable about music contracts. Pay attention to clauses on royalties, ownership of masters, and the duration of the contract. I will advise consulting a lawyer with experience in entertainment law, who can help you understand the terms and identify potential red flags. Don’t be afraid to negotiate for better terms. Check the revenue sharing, contract duration, and creative control.
Why not consider evaluating the label’s track record? Research the label’s history and the success of its artists. A label that has consistently produced high-quality music and nurtured its artists’ careers is more likely to provide a supportive environment.
Ensure that the label has the resources, connections, and expertise to help you grow. A good label should have a well-structured team for marketing, production, and distribution.
Don’t neglect ministry for profits. Make sure the label shares your vision and values as a gospel artist. A label that prioritizes ministry alongside business will be better aligned with your goals.
While working with a label, focus on building your personal brand. This will ensure you remain relevant even if you part ways with the label. Invest in your knowledge. Learn about the music industry, marketing, and distribution. The more informed you are, the better decisions you’ll make.
Ultimately, be prayerful and wise. As a gospel artist, your ministry is as important as your career. Immerse yourself in prayer and study of the word, alongside this, surround yourself with wise and godly counsel before making decisions.
Dear Gospel Record Labels,
Prioritize Ministry Over Business: While profitability is important, gospel labels must remember their primary mission: to propagate the gospel through music. Decisions should reflect this purpose.
Invest in Talent Development: Beyond profits, focus on nurturing and developing artists holistically – musically, spiritually, and professionally. A well-rounded artist is more likely to succeed and positively impact their audience.
Prioritize fairness and transparency in your contracts. Exploitative agreements harm both the artist and the reputation of the label. As ambassadors of the gospel, uphold ethical standards in all dealings.
You must embrace professionalism in all aspects of your operations. This includes proper accounting, clear communication, and investing in quality production and marketing. Build sustainable relationships with artists.
The gospel music industry in Nigeria holds immense potential, but this comes with a responsibility to balance ministry and business effectively. For artists, wisdom, patience, and diligence are essential when considering contracts, while record labels must operate with integrity and a long-term vision. By fostering mutual respect and collaboration, gospel labels and artists can together create music that glorifies God and reaches the world. In the end, the goal of gospel music is to glorify God and spread His message. Let every decision – whether as an artist or a label – be guided by this ultimate purpose.
May we see a future where gospel music thrives not just as an industry but as a powerful tool for spiritual transformation.
John Oyebanji is an ardent lover of gospel music, Minister of the New Testament, and Public Affairs Commentator/Analyst. He serves at the Full Redemption Chapel, Ondo, and writes from Ondo City.
