Why I turned down multi-milion naira record deal in Ghana – Singer Benue Boy

Renowned singer Peter Obaje, widely known as Benue Boy, has voiced his concerns about the Nigerian music industry, describing it as being under the influence of a cartel system. In a recent podcast titled “Encounter with Chris J,” the ‘Ameriya’ crooner asserted that success in the music business is increasingly tied to affiliations with certain groups or confraternities.

Benue Boy expressed his observations, stating, “The challenges I see in the music industry, I think people see this modern industry as a cartel kind of thing. That is, if you don’t belong to a confraternity or group, you cannot scale through to the next level.”

Sharing a personal experience, he recounted a trip to Ghana sponsored by a politician, where he was presented with a potential record deal. However, the deal came with clauses that, according to Benue Boy, would compromise his principles. He highlighted the pressure artists face to align with certain expectations, emphasizing the impact on their authenticity.

Detailing a specific offer, Benue Boy disclosed, “Somebody offered me a deal of $29,000 in Ghana, but I rejected it because it was gonna sink my life. I think a cartel is controlling the music industry, and this is not helping the young ones.”