In a recent live video on Instagram, DJ Maphorisa ignited a debate within the music industry with his controversial statement about the ownership of music masters which got some musical influential people like Prince Kaybee and others to slam him.
His viewpoint stirred both support and backlash, bringing attention to the financial dynamics between artists and major labels. While DJ Maphorisa’s words may have been blunt, they highlight a crucial aspect of the music industry that artists need to understand and navigate – the business of music ownership.
DJ Maphorisa’s statement, “I buy the food, I buy the water, it’s my computer and my electricity. So why must you own things you didn’t come with?” raises an important question.
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Should artists expect to own their masters outright, considering the substantial financial investments made by labels in their projects? This question delves into the underlying business model of the music industry.
One key aspect that DJ Maphorisa’s statement brings to light is the role of major labels in funding various elements of music production. Labels often act as financial backers, investing significantly in an artist’s career.
They cover costs related to artist development, production, engineering, and miscellaneous expenses. However, these investments come with a caveat – labels aim to recoup their expenditures before relinquishing full ownership of an artist’s masters.
This business practice is not unique to any particular region but rather a standard industry approach on a global scale.
Major music labels operate with a business mindset, treating the funding of artists’ projects as a business investment with the expectation of a return. This model has been witnessed across various genres, but it is particularly evident in the world of hip-hop.
Iconic figures like Jay Z have had to fight to regain ownership of their masters after signing early in their careers.
Jay Z’s story exemplifies the industry norm where artists, despite their talent and creativity, must navigate through the label’s system and work towards recouping costs before gaining full ownership of their masters.
This highlights the pragmatic reality that artists, even with a significant impact on the industry, often must adhere to the established norms of the business.
While DJ Maphorisa’s words may seem too blunt for some, they bring attention to a critical aspect of the music industry – the need for artists to understand and navigate the financial intricacies involved in their collaborations with major labels.
Even the seemingly minute costs, like food during studio sessions, add up and contribute to the overall financial investment made by labels. DJ Maphorisa’s call for artists to invest in their studios, plugins, and equipment aligns with the idea of taking control of their creative and financial destinies.
The controversy sparked by DJ Maphorisa prompts artists to consider the broader picture and strategically position themselves within the industry. It brings to light the importance of mastering the business side of music ownership for artists striving to navigate the complexities of the music industry successfully.
