SEALED WITH A "KISS" - Nigerian Music Industry Contracts

Introduction

Introduction

Is an 'unfair' contract illegal or invalid?

Can an artist quit a contract if a lawyer didn’t look at it on his/her behalf?

Does a label have an obligation to secure/approve features (both inward and outward) for its artist?

These and many more questions have been floating around in the ether in the wake of the ongoing Kiss Daniel and G-Worldwide Entertainment Ltd (G-Worldwide) contract dispute.

Based on available media reports and statements from the parties the pertinent facts are that Kiss Daniel entered into a seven year agreement with the entertainment company, but then a few weeks ago - whilst the agreement still subsists (according to G-Worldwide) - he unilaterally announced his termination of the agreement and the launch of a new music company under which he would be releasing his future recordings.

In light of the inevitable attention this case is receiving, it has presented a useful opportunity to reiterate the importance of understanding the terms of agreements and mo…