Record labels not best option –Kenkubii to artistes
Singer and songwriter Kenkubii has advised emerging artistes to think twice before rushing into record label deals, urging them instead to consider independent paths that protect their craft and long-term careers.
He believes many record label contracts are structured to benefit the label more than the artiste, often exploiting musicians' creative labour while limiting their freedom and prospects.
Kenkubii argued that a number of labels are primarily driven by profit, with little regard for the long-term development or welfare of the artistes they sign. He cited the recent Kwesi Arthur incident as a clear example of how such arrangements can negatively affect artistes over time.
Speaking to Graphic Showbiz in an interview on Tuesday, February 3, Kenkubii stressed the importance of patience and self-development, especially for up-and-coming artistes.
“The ultimate interest of record labels is to make money and grow. They are not necessarily interested in making you a star just because they believe in you.”
“That is why I maintain that artistes, especially those of us who are yet to fully break into the system, should not rely entirely on labels”, he said.
He added that building an independent career equips artistes with knowledge and leverage, reducing the risk of exploitation later on.
“If you build your career independently and later decide to work with a record label, you already understand the system. That way, no one can take advantage of you,” he noted.
Kenkubii believes Ghana’s current music ecosystem provides viable alternatives for artistes to succeed without giving up control of their careers.
“If you are willing to work hard, carve a niche for yourself and subscribe to digital distribution services, you can grow your audience independently and create leverage even before considering a label,” he advised.
He also expressed disappointment with what he described as the weak enforcement and limited impact of industry bodies such as GHAMRO and MUSIGA.
“Do these industry organisations really function in this country?” he questioned. “They are supposed to protect us, but they are not proactive. It is only after something goes wrong that you hear a statement being issued.”
As a result, he urged artistes to surround themselves with competent and trustworthy professionals to manage their affairs properly.
For artistes who are already signed to record labels, Kenkubii cautioned against public disputes, encouraging them to seek legal or mediated solutions instead.
“Transparency is very important. We need to stop taking things for granted. Resolving disputes through legal means or mediation is often better than airing issues in public,” he said.
He further advised artistes to ask critical questions before signing any deal, particularly on issues of exclusivity, recoupment, advances and ownership rights. He encouraged negotiations for buyouts or co-ownership arrangements where possible.
“These conversations must happen before signing, not after,” he stressed. “I would rather let my trusted lawyer handle legal matters because that aspect of the business is very delicate.”
Kenkubii concluded by identifying ignorance as one of the biggest threats to artistes’ careers.
“Ignorance, they say, is a disease,” he remarked. “Artiste education and mentorship are crucial. We cannot afford to sit back and allow others to make decisions for us.”
