Lawyer Up or Get Ripped: Why You Need Entertainment Lawyers in 2025

The entertainment world is a global village now, with artists from Lagos vibing with producers in London and dropping tracks that blow up in New York. But going global also means navigating a legal minefield—that's where entertainment lawyers become your best friends (or at least, your essential business partners). They’re like the seasoned tour guides of the legal world, making sure you don't accidentally step on any international landmines.

These legal eagles ensure you're playing by the rules of the game in every territory, handling everything from copyright regulations (so you don't accidentally sample someone's grandma's lullaby without permission) to taxation policies (because nobody wants tax trouble, trust me) and local content standards (making sure your music video isn't banned for accidentally featuring a sacred goat or something.

You've heard the stories, right? Artists battling over royalties, getting tied up in bad contracts, losing control of their own work. It's a painful reality, and it's something we need to talk about, especially as we navigate the ever-evolving music scene of 2025.

Recently, Darkoo accused Peter of P-square of taking down her music video on YouTube— an accusation Peter and his management have subsequently debunked. This music sampled P-square’s Gimme Dat and the video is reminiscent of P-square’s style. Imagine how much of these would have been avoided if a proper negotiation had been met. These are the types of pitfalls having an entertainment lawyer can save you from in 2025.

Contracts Negotiation and Drafting

Entertainment lawyers save you from the headache of complex music contracts— whether you're getting into one or getting out. Moreover, as streaming, licensing, and global collaborations continue to grow in 2025, agreements are more intricate than ever. Artists often find themselves dealing with diverse revenue streams—royalties, merchandise, digital rights, endorsements—making expert legal guidance essential. Without it, you risk signing unfavourable deals that can stifle your career and financial growth.

A good entertainment lawyer ensures contracts are not only legally sound but also fair. They fight for:

Fair Profit Sharing: Securing equitable distribution of earnings.
Creative Control: Protecting your right to make artistic decisions.
Protection from Exploitation: Safeguarding against unfair practices, especially concerning future intellectual property rights.

Several high-profile cases illustrate the importance of legal counsel:

Wizkid vs. EME Records and Kiss Daniel (now Kizz Daniel) vs. G-worldwide: These disputes highlighted the need for lawyers in renegotiating artist-label agreements. With legal help, Wizkid successfully exited his deal and gained control of his career. Similarly, Kizz Daniel was able to transition into building a thriving career after a publicized contract breach and court case with his former label over his copyrighted name “Kiss Daniel”..

Tiwa Savage's Transition: Entertainment lawyers played a key role in structuring Tiwa Savage's smooth departure from Mavin Records and securing her groundbreaking international deal with Universal Music Group.

The Kooks vs. Dastoor (2008): This case involved the band The Kooks and their former manager, who claimed a share of their earnings based on a verbal agreement. The court ruled in favour of The Kooks, emphasising the critical importance of written agreements in business—especially in the music industry. Relying on "handshake deals" can lead to serious problems down the line.

Elton John vs. Dick James Music Ltd. (1990): This case centered on royalty payments, with Elton John suing his former manager and publishing company. The court ruled in John's favour, emphasising the importance of transparent and fair royalty agreements and clear contract terms.

These examples, both contemporary and historical, underscore the vital role of entertainment lawyers in protecting artists' rights and ensuring they receive fair compensation for their work.

Copyright and IP rights

This is the crux of many cases nowadays as sampling and interpolation are increasingly common in music today. Remember Burna Boy's use of Toni Braxton, Davido sampling Brenda Fassie, or Wizkid interpolating King Sunny Ade and more recently, Darkoo sampling P-Square? This highlights how much the entertainment industry relies on intellectual property (IP), covering everything from music and film scripts to brand trademarks and online content.

In Nigeria, the Copyright Act (specifically Section 1) offers important protections for various creative works, including literary, artistic, musical, and cinematographic works. Copyright law gives artists the legal tools to prevent unauthorized use, reproduction, and distribution of their music, acting as a safeguard against exploitation. Sections 14 and 15 further protect artists' "moral rights" (ensuring proper attribution and safeguarding the integrity of their work) and the right to fair compensation for the economic value they create.

However, creators face ongoing challenges like unauthorised use of their work, the rise of deepfakes with AI which would only become more prominent in 2025. This is where an entertainment lawyer becomes invaluable. They can help you protect your IP by:

Filing trademarks, copyrights, and patents.
Taking legal action against infringers.

Advising on licensing agreements to ensure you retain ownership while still monetising your work.

Here are a couple of key legal cases that illustrate the importance of protecting IP and having solid contracts:

BPI vs. Napster (2000): The British Phonographic Industry (BPI) sued Napster, a file-sharing service, for copyright infringement. The core issue was whether Napster was facilitating illegal sharing of music. The court ruled in favour of the BPI, forcing Napster to shut down. This landmark case was a major win in the fight against online music piracy and established the legal responsibility of digital platforms to protect IP.
Matthew Fisher vs. Procol Harum (2000): This case established a precedent for recognising co-authorship in musical compositions. The court ruled that organist Matthew Fisher was entitled to a share of royalties for his contribution to "A Whiter Shade of Pale."

These cases highlight that YOU'LL GET RIPPED if you fail to lawyer up in the entertainment industry.

Dispute Resolution

Disputes in the entertainment industry are inevitable, whether they involve contract breaches, intellectual property theft, or defamation. Recently, we have seen Burna Boy charge Speed Darlington to court and Davido suing Dammy Krane. Entertainment lawyers are crucial in resolving such conflicts through mediation or litigation. In 2025, the rise of public-facing social media disputes is imminent, highlighting the need for skilled legal advisors to manage reputational damage alongside legal proceedings. If you don't lawyer up, your career is trailing on the edge of an abyss you might not recover from.

Brand Partnerships

Even if you're not headlining stadiums yet, these deals matter. Imagine a local Nigerian artist who gets approached by a popular clothing brand for a collaboration. Without a lawyer, they might agree to a deal that sounds good on the surface but ends up giving the brand way too much control over their image or music. Or consider a UK-based Afrobeats artist approached by a streaming platform for an exclusive deal. A lawyer can help them negotiate the best possible terms, ensuring fair compensation and protecting their rights. These are the kinds of deals that can truly boost an artist's career, but only if they're structured properly.

This is where entertainment lawyers come in to help you avoid getting ripped. They serve as strategic advisors helping you structure deals that align with your long-term goals. They’re the ones whispering smart business moves in your ear, helping you navigate the treacherous waters of brand partnerships and even explore investment opportunities.

Conclusion

We know now more than ever, artists are becoming full-blown entrepreneurs, managing their own brands and businesses. Therefore, having a lawyer who understands both the legal and business sides of the industry is a total game-changer. They're the ones who can help you avoid those "oops, I signed what?!" moments that can haunt artists for years. They'll help you secure IP rights, manage disputes, and secure profitable deals. So, even if you’re just starting out, don't wait until a problem arises, invest in an entertainment lawyer now and protect your hustle. It's not an expense; it's an investment in your career.

Promote or Perish in the Trenches: The Independent Artist's Guide to Digital Music Promotion in 2025

The music industry is now more brutal than ever. In 2025, we're going to see more focus on data and charts than ever. But that doesn't mean you have to engage in practices that get you punished— like stream farming.

Still, simply creating great music isn't enough. Effective creative and strategic promotion is the lifeblood of an independent artist's career. It's no longer a choice—it's a necessity.

So, let's discuss actionable strategies to help you navigate the complexities of modern music promotion, connect with a global audience, and thrive, even with limited resources.

Leveraging the Power of Digital Platforms

Social media has become the ultimate battleground for capturing attention. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube offer unparalleled opportunities to engage fans, share your music, and build a loyal following. Also, you're just one post away from virality with platforms’ powerful algorithms, allowing independent artists with limited resources to reach millions of potential listeners.

A typical example of this is Rema’s unreleased single, ‘ Is it A Crime?’. The song is already popular and has not been released. All it took was an upload from Rema on all his social media platforms.

This showcases the power of organic reach on the platform. For independent artists, this means focusing on creating short, captivating videos that resonate with current trends, using relevant hashtags, and interacting with other creators.

Also, share snippets of your music, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and collaborate with other artists or influencers to expand your reach.

Crafting Your Narrative: The Power of Authentic Storytelling

In an age of information overload, compelling content is king. Fans crave connection, not just music.

For example, Kizz Daniel announces every new single with a short video of him vibing to the song in his studio, sometimes with his wife spitting the lyrics like she co wrote the song.. This shows his cute personality and builds anticipation.

Consider creating artist vlogs, live performances, and "making-of" documentaries to connect with your audience on a deeper level.

Importantly, consistent branding across platforms is crucial. Eye-catching artwork, and visually appealing social media posts contribute to a cohesive and professional image.

Streaming Platforms

Streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music are the primary avenues for music consumption.

Optimising profiles on these platforms is essential for maximising discoverability. Properly marketing and pitching your songs to feature on playlists alongside similar artists and genres can introduce your work to new listeners.

Also, utilising artist radio features on streaming platforms allows for continuous playback of an artist's music and similar tracks, keeping listeners engaged. Analysing streaming data can provide valuable insights into listener behaviour, allowing artists to tailor their content and promotional strategies accordingly.

Collaborations

Collaborations with other artists, influencers, and brands can significantly expand your reach and introduce your music to new audiences.

Partnering with artists in complementary genres can expose you to a new fan base and generate cross-promotion opportunities.

Collaborating with relevant influencers can introduce your music to their followers and generate organic buzz. It doesn't have to be about the amount of followers they have. Choose influencers whose audience aligns with your target demographic.

Finally, aligning with producers, agencies and brands that resonate with your music and values can open up new avenues for promotion and funding

Public Relations: Securing Media Coverage and Building Credibility

Securing media coverage through press releases, interviews, and reviews can establish your credibility and generate buzz within the music industry.

Compile a comprehensive press kit that includes your bio, discography, high-resolution images, and press contact.

Tailor your press releases and pitches to specific publications and journalists.

Embracing Emerging Technologies

Within this year 2025 and beyond, embracing emerging technologies will be crucial. As technology continues to evolve, so will the landscape of music promotion.

For example, AI is already playing a significant role in music creation and recommendation systems. Understanding how these work can help you optimise your music for discovery.

Similarly, virtual concerts, Virtual and Augmented Reality are becoming increasingly popular, offering new ways to engage fans and create immersive experiences.

Therefore, being aware of these will be crucial to stay ahead of the curve.

Ready to take your music promotion to the next level? 69 Agency specialises in helping independent African artists within and outside the continent thrive in the digital age.

Contact us today for a free consultation and let's discuss how we can help you achieve your musical goals.

ICYMI: Wizkid's Morayo, Nominations, and everything that happened in the Afrobeats Scene in November

As we know, the thinnest yellow light of November is more warming and exhilarating than any wine they tell of; it was nothing short of this in the Afrobeats scene. Charts were rearranged, Nominations were bagged, and records were broken. This month was nothing short of a fairytale. Let’s run through the various happenings of the month

Wizkid: Morayo

This month saw major chart-topping successes as Wizkid cleared the Spotify charts for the song with the highest debut stream in a day with his single ‘Piece of My Heart’. Days later, he released his album Morayo, which has the top 10 songs with the highest opening-day streaming debut on Spotify Nigeria. The album broke the record for the most streams by an African album on Spotify. Wizkid took us back to the time of sound of the other side with a mix of Made of Lagos. Are you a fan of Starboy or big wiz? Are you a fan of the old Wizkid or the new Wizkid? You don’t have to worry; Morayo has something for everyone regardless. Check out our review of Morayo.

Davido And Nicki Reunite

This month, we also saw a major collaboration, as Davido was featured on Nicki Minaj's Pink Album 10th Anniversary. This isn’t the first time both heavyweights have been on a single; you can testify to how good Holy Ground sounded. It wasn't short of expectations, if it is okay, as they both delivered perfectly. Nicki Minaj considers Davido as one of the best songwriters she knows

Eric Bellinger: It'll All Make Sense Later

Eric’s love for Afrobeats in undeniable as his new album features Burna Boy, Taves, and Reekado Banks. However, Burna Boy’s verse was removed for unknown reasons— maybe it'll all make sense later.

John Legend: Get Lifted (20th Anniversary

Afrobeats are more than a phrase to the world, as everybody is getting on the train of Afrobeats, even the Legendary John Legend. Simi and Tems were featured on John Legend's new album celebrating the 20th Anniversary of Get Lifted. The culture is getting bigger.

Grammys Nomination

Every Grammy Nomination day feels like a rapture; just kidding. But there is always a spark of joy, resentment, and banter every Grammy nomination day. This year’s edition was nothing short of it, as the thrill was present. The Grammy nomination was a major talking point as it spread like wildfire. Afrobeats sensation Rema got his first nomination, while other nominated acts were Yemi Alade, Asake, Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Davido. Africans in the Diaspora also showed magic, and Jordan Adetunji got a nomination for his massive hit Kehlani

Tours

Music without touring is like smoke without fire. This month saw major tours, as Ayrastarr was on tour with Cold Play, and Tems was on her Australia tour after the release of her debut album, ‘Born in the Wild’. Ruger was also on tour in Canada with Liya. This shows how Afrobeats is taking the major stage bit by bit.

Olamide’s Feature Run

The king of the streets didn’t stop showing up as he added a couple of features this month. November came with its surprises as we saw Peruzzi release his first single in a long time, Jah Love, featuring the street crooner. Zlatan also featured Olamide. Lade and Shallipopi also got blessed with a Baddo’s feature. Trust him always to deliver exceptionally; he keeps showing how much of a superstar he is

Mayorkun’s Return

Mayorkun dropped his first single in a while ‘Innocent’ featuring Fireboy. One would think the Mayor has forgotten his city. I am super excited to hear he still has it. He went vocals to vocals with Fireboy, which rarely happens in songs. The intentionality and uniqueness showed in this new song. We hope the mayor will be back for a long time.

Chaos

Afrobeats and Chaos are synonymous. This month was nothing short of it. It was definitely present, from fans' banter to artists' subtle shades. One perfect example was Ruger being dragged in when he said he wanted to inherit Wizkid’s fan base called FC. A lot of people came for him, saying he lacks self-confidence and doesn’t believe in his fans. But what is music without the banter? It soundslike food without spice.

November has certainly set the pace for a detty December, get ready for an action packed December! What did we miss?

Noon Dave: A Rising Star in the Afrofusion Scene

Born Oluwaseun David Obafemi on May 23 in Benin Republic, Noon Dave, also known as Noon Dave, is a talented R&B singer/songwriter signed to Chocolate City Music. Growing up amidst the rich musical landscape of West Africa, Noon Dave developed a deep appreciation for music at a young age, drawing inspiration from his daily experiences and the diverse sounds that surrounded him.

Beyond his natural talent, Noon Dave is a dedicated student of music. He honed his skills at the Peter Kings College of Music, broadening his horizons and deepening his understanding of various musical genres. Inspired by international superstars like Drake, PARTYNEXTDOOR, and Bryson Tiller, Noon Dave sought to infuse his own music with their influences while maintaining a distinctly local flavor.

What sets the dreadlocked artist apart is his versatility and lyrical prowess. His discography showcases a wide range of styles, from the R&B-infused "Too Late" to the hip-hop-influenced "Brunch" and the pop-driven "Hillary." His ability to seamlessly navigate different genres while maintaining his unique artistic identity is a testament to his musical versatility.

Noon Dave's lyrics are characterized by their clarity, depth, and emotional resonance. He possesses a knack for crafting relatable narratives that resonate with audiences on a personal level. His recent EP, "Noon at Noon," is a testament to his lyrical abilities, exploring themes of love, loyalty, and personal experiences in a poignant and introspective manner.

The EP's standout tracks, such as "Brunch," "Facecard," and "Merry Go," showcase Noon Dave's ability to blend various musical genres and create catchy melodies. His collaborations with talented producers like Auxxi and Projexx have further elevated his music, bringing in fresh perspectives and expanding his artistic horizons.

Noon Dave's music has garnered significant attention and praise, with his tracks receiving millions of streams and establishing him as a rising star in the Afrofusion scene. His ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level, coupled with his undeniable talent, positions him as a promising artist with a bright future.

PromiseLand Festival: Asake, Rema headlines the 2024 edition.

The Promise Land concert, slated for October 4-6 at Doug Jennings Park, is poised to be a groundbreaking musical event. This three-day extravaganza will feature a diverse lineup of international and local artists, promising an unforgettable experience for music lovers.

The concert's lineup is nothing short of impressive. Headliners include Jhus, Metro Boomin, Headie One, Rema, Jorja Smith, Miguel, Beenie Man, Tiwa Savage, Ruger, Asake, Busta Rhymes, Omah Lay, and many more. This diverse mix of genres and styles ensures something for everyone.

One of the Promise Land concert's most notable aspects is its focus on African talent. Many featured artists hail from Africa, showcasing the continent's rich musical heritage. This is a significant step towards recognizing and celebrating African artists globally.

The festival sees the likes of Among the African performers

like Jhus, African Prince Rema would be gracing the stage following his recent album ‘HEIS’ success. African Bad Girl Tiwa Savage continues to show how much of a leading figure she is in the African music scene. She would be gracing the stage alongside other Nigeria acts, Ruger, Bnxn, Victony, and Shallipopi, all on the second day of the three days.

The Lungu Boy, Asake, will headline the third day alongside Omah Lay. This day also sees other African heavyweights like Uncle Waffles, The Composers, King Promise,and Seyi Vibez show their musical prowess.

Amapiano music isn’t left out, as major African American sensation acts like Tyler ICU, Focalistic, and TXC will also raise the African continent at the Promise Land Concert.

The inclusion of these talented African artists at the Promise Land concert reflects the growing recognition and appreciation of African music worldwide. It serves as a platform for these artists to showcase their unique styles and reach new audiences.

As the Promise Land concert approaches, anticipation is building for the incredible performances that are sure to take place. With its focus on African talent and its commitment to celebrating diversity, the event promises to be a memorable celebration of music that transcends borders and unites people from all walks of life.

Tems' Electrifying New York Concert: A Night to Remember

Tems, the Nigerian-born, Grammy-award-winning singer-songwriter, brought her captivating voice and soulful melodies to the iconic Radio City Music Hall in New York City on September 5th, 2024. Her "Born In The Wild" tour, including a stop in the Big Apple, is part of her journey to her global rise and her fans’ unwavering love of her fans.

The concert was a whirlwind of emotions, filled with powerful performances of her hit songs, "Free Mind," "Essence," and "Love Me Jeje." Tems' unique vocal style and passionate lyrics resonated deeply with the audience, creating an intimate and unforgettable experience.

One of the highlights of the evening was the surprise appearance of special guests, including a performance from John Legend and her African counterpart, Ayrastarr, gracing the stage to add more spice to the event.Their collaborative performances added an extra layer of excitement and energy to the show.

As Tems wrapped up her set, the audience was left wanting more. Her concert was a show of her talent and her impact on the music industry. With her soaring vocals and magnetic stage presence, Tems continues solidifying her position as one of the most promising artists of her generation.

Rema's Benin Homecoming: A Night to Remember

Rema, the global Afrobeats sensation, returned home to Benin City for a historic concert that will be discussed for years. The event, held at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium on August 30, 2024, was a celebration of music, culture, and the incredible journey of a local boy who has conquered the world.

This was more than a concert; it was a global exposure of how many opportunities lie in Benin. The concert also sparked an increase in economic activities in the city. Rema’s homecoming concert saw him visit the Oba of Benin, who awarded the global superstar with a plague. During the visit, Rema also gifted a church 105 million naira.

The concert featured a star-studded lineup of Nigerian artists who joined Rema on stage to create an unforgettable night. Fans were treated to performances by Don Jazzy, Odumodublvck,Shallipopi, Ayox, Magix, Crayon , Ladipoe and a couple of others who electrified the crowd with their hit songs. Beyond the music, the event was a cultural extravaganza, with the stage adorned with traditional elements and the performance infused with local rhythms and dances.

Rema's return to his hometown of Edo State marked the start of a new era for the local entertainment industry. Together with Governor Obaseki, he laid the foundation for a new concert venue, "Rema's Dome." In a powerful speech, Rema encouraged his fellow Edoites to never give up on their dreams, no matter how impossible they may seem.

Rema's homecoming concert was more than just a music event; it was a celebration of unity and a tribute to his roots. The concert brought together people from all walks of life, united by their love for Rema and their pride in their hometown. Rema took the time to express his gratitude for his upbringing in Benin City, acknowledging the role his community played in shaping his career.

Afrobeats Stars Make Performance Appearances in Jade Osiberu's 'Christmas in Lagos'

Jade Osiberu's highly anticipated new film, "Christmas in Lagos," is set to hit Prime Video this December. The movie features a star-studded cast, including renowned actors and popular Afrobeats artists.

For the first time, Afrobeat sensation Adekunle Gold, Ayra Starr, and Ladipoe will showcase their acting talents in "Christmas in Lagos." Joining them are other prominent Afrobeats stars like Waje, Wurld, Liya, and Supacell star Rayxia Ojo.

Set against the vibrant backdrop of Lagos' "Detty December" festivities, the film follows the stories of four friends navigating love, loss, and friendship. Fiyin, Gbemi, Ivie, and Elo face personal challenges and unexpected twists as they celebrate the holiday season.

Known for her crime thrillers, Jade Osiberu has made a name for herself in the Nigerian film industry. While "Christmas in Lagos" marks a departure from her usual genre, she assures fans that she isn't abandoning action films. In fact, she teases two upcoming projects that will satisfy her thrill-seeking audience.

In addition to the Afrobeats stars, the film boasts a talented ensemble of actors, including Richard Mofe Damijo (RMD), Shaffy Bello, Wale Ojo, Teniola Aladese, Angel Anosike, Shalom C Obiago, and Rayxia Ojo.

"Christmas in Lagos" promises to be a heartwarming and entertaining film that captures the spirit of the season. An exact date for Christmas in Lagos will surely be announced in the coming months, as excitement for the film builds up. Meanwhile, Osiberu also teased a possible sequel to Gangs of Lagos in the video posted on social media, as well as another action thriller project.

Road to Trifecta: Asake Announces Third Album, "Lungu Boy," with Strategically Star-Studded Lineup

Nigerian Afrobeats sensation, Asake, has officially announced his third studio album, titled "Lungu Boy." The highly anticipated project is set to drop on August 9th, 2024, following the success of his previous albums, "Mr. Money With The Vibe" and "Work Of Art."

The album boasts a 15-track lineup, including a bonus song titled "Fuji Vibe," and features a star-studded cast of collaborators. Wizkid, Travis Scott, Stormzy, Central Cee, and Ludmilla are the artists lending their talents to the project.

Asake’s strategic selection of collaborators is evident in the album's lineup. By featuring artists with strong followings in the UK, US, Brazil, and Nigeria, respectively, Asake is positioning himself for global dominance.

To coincide with the album release, Asake has announced the "Lungu Boy World Tour," produced by Live Nation. The 10-date tour will kick off on August 16th in Washington, DC, and conclude on September 28th in Paris. The tour will see Asake performing in some of the world's most iconic venues, including Madison Square Garden.

This project is expected to complete his run of successful albums while solidifying his status as a global music star.