Asake Felt 'Cheated' After YBNL Exit, Lawyer Claims

Lagos, Nigeria - The circumstances surrounding Asake's departure from Olamide's YBNL Nation record label have been brought to light by entertainment lawyer Yemisi Falaye. Falaye claims the "Sungba" singer felt "cheated" due to the terms of the contract he initially signed with YBNL, despite her warnings against it.

Singer Launched Own Label After Departure

News of Asake's exit from YBNL Nation first surfaced in December 2024, with reports suggesting a termination agreement was reached. This separation was seemingly confirmed in February 2025 when Asake launched his own record label, Giran Republic. However, the specific reasons behind the departure remained largely undisclosed until Falaye's recent revelations.

Lawyer Advised Against Initial Contract

Falaye detailed the situation, explaining that Asake, eager for a breakthrough after years in the music industry, disregarded her legal advice and signed the contract presented to him by Olamide without proper scrutiny. According to Falaye, Olamide himself had encouraged Asake to seek legal counsel before signing.

"I remember when Olamide was going to sign Asake," Falaye recounted. "He was so overwhelmed that he said to Olamide, 'I’m not going to get a lawyer to review this agreement. YBNL wants to sign me, do you know how long I’ve been waiting?' Olamide told him, 'Take the contract, go and give it to somebody to review it.'"

Despite taking the contract to Falaye, Asake reportedly dismissed her concerns, accusing her of trying to sabotage his opportunity. Falaye stated she warned Asake that the contract would effectively assign his rights "in perpetuity."

Asake's Perspective: A Rush to Success

The case highlights a common dilemma faced by emerging artists: the pressure to seize opportunities quickly, sometimes at the expense of long-term financial and artistic control. "Many artists, driven by the immediate prospect of success, overlook the fine print," explains music industry analyst, Chioma Eze. "They prioritize immediate gains over future security, which can lead to regret later on. The allure of a major label signing can be blinding."

Contractual Agreements: A Historical Context

The history of the music industry is replete with stories of artists exploited by unfavorable contracts. From early blues musicians to contemporary pop stars, the imbalance of power between established labels and emerging talent has often resulted in artists losing control of their work and earnings. In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of these issues, leading to increased advocacy for artists' rights and fairer contractual agreements. The rise of independent artists and labels has also provided alternative pathways for musicians seeking greater autonomy.

The Importance of Legal Representation

Falaye's account underscores the critical importance of legal representation for artists entering into contractual agreements. A qualified entertainment lawyer can help artists understand the implications of a contract, negotiate favorable terms, and protect their rights. By having a clear understanding of their rights and obligations, artists can make informed decisions that will benefit them in the long run.

The Fallout and Future Implications

Falaye suggests that the unfavorable contract ultimately led to Asake feeling "cheated" and contributed to his decision to leave YBNL Nation. While the specifics of the termination agreement remain undisclosed, the situation serves as a cautionary tale for aspiring musicians.

"This situation highlights the need for artists to prioritize due diligence and seek expert advice before signing any contract," says Eze. "While the excitement of a record deal is understandable, it's crucial to remember that it's a business transaction with long-term consequences."

Asake's career trajectory since leaving YBNL Nation remains to be seen. His establishment of Giran Republic suggests a desire for greater control over his music and career. Whether this independence will translate into sustained success remains to be observed, but the lessons learned from his experience with YBNL Nation will likely inform his future decisions.