Top 5 Nigerian artistes who are also record label executives

Artistes are primarily seen and judged first for the work they put out. From holistic works such as the albums, music and videos, to more fragmented inputs like verses and choruses, they are revered or shunned primarily based on these.

But behind the scenes, certain artistes go the extra length to be more than just artistes. They are actively involved in all the processes of music including the managerial, distribution and marketing aspects. This they do from vantage legal positions within the record labels within which they work from.

Don Jazzy

From creating and steering Mo’Hits Records in partnership to D’banj, and reinventing the wheel with Mavin Records, Don Jazzy holds prominence as Africa’s most powerful record label executive who is also a singer. Although he majors in production, over the past half-decade, he has grown into one of the finest pop singers. Notable acts under his stewardship include Tiwa Savage, Korede Bello and Reekado Banks.

Olamide

The YBNL rapper is currently Nigeria’s best in his genre, and this he does while being at the helm of his affairs. Olamide is the CEO of his label, with his leadership style being likened to that of a father. Having taken his career to the zenith of the local industry, in the past two years he had extended focus to acts signed under him, leading to the emergence and thriving of Adekunle Gold and Lil Kesh.

M.I Abaga

The short black boy from Jos currently sits at the top spot in one of Africa’s label giants, Chocolate City Music. Having gotten experiential currency and status from running his now-defunct house, Loopy Music, the rapper was installed as the CEO of Choc City in June 2015. One of his first act was to acquire Loopy Music and all her talents. Currently, he oversees the career of 14 acts.

Banky W

R&B singer Banky W is famous for his work at EME. He founded the record label which has done great work in discovering and launching the careers of Wizkid and Skales. Also, on his roster are Niyola, Shaydee, and DJ Xclusive.

2face Idibia

Africa’s music legend makes this list for his work with Hypertek. Having created epic moments and defined pop culture at multiple eras, 2baba has his work cut out with Dammy Krane and Rocksteady, two acts who he took on.