In a recent interview, Nigerian singer May D, whose real name is Akinmayokun Awodumila, opened up about his decision to decline a record deal offered by the iconic duo Psquare, composed of twin brothers Peter and Paul Okoye. The interview provided a detailed account of his early career interactions with Psquare, his subsequent rise to fame, the eventual contract offer, and the reasons behind his ultimate refusal. May D explained his perspective on the deal’s terms, clarifying perceived misunderstandings and revealing the complex dynamics that ultimately led him to pursue a different path. This in-depth discussion shed light on a significant turning point in his career, offering valuable insights into the often-opaque world of the music industry and the difficult choices artists face.
May D’s journey began with humble beginnings, marked by relentless pursuit of his musical aspirations. He recounted his persistent efforts to gain Psquare’s attention, eventually leading to a pivotal moment when he showcased his talent directly to the duo. This encounter proved fruitful, resulting in May D becoming an affiliate of Square Records, Psquare’s label. He described this period as a formative one, characterized by close collaboration and mentorship. As part of the Square Records family, he contributed significantly to Psquare’s creative output, featuring on tracks and accompanying them on tours. This period of collaboration not only boosted his visibility within the music scene but also honed his skills and solidified his identity as a rising star. This initial period of collaboration laid the groundwork for the eventual contract offer, signaling Psquare’s belief in his potential.
The turning point arrived when Psquare presented May D with a formal record deal. While this might have seemed like the natural progression and a dream opportunity for many aspiring artists, May D expressed reservations. He detailed the specific terms of the contract, which he felt did not adequately reflect his contributions and potential. Key sticking points included the compensation structure, ownership of his music, and the overall control he would have over his artistic direction. He felt that despite his significant involvement and growing popularity, the proposed agreement positioned him more as a supporting act rather than a fully independent artist with the potential to become a major star in his own right. He emphasized that his decision was driven by a desire for greater autonomy and a belief in his own potential to achieve even greater success independently.
May D further elaborated on the complexities of his relationship with Psquare, dispelling misconceptions about the nature of their association. While acknowledging their initial support and mentorship, he clarified that misunderstandings and communication breakdowns eventually arose. He explained that despite appearances, he wasn’t operating under a formal contract during the initial phase of their collaboration. This ambiguity regarding his official status within Square Records further complicated matters when the official contract was eventually presented. He emphasized that his decision wasn’t simply a financial disagreement, but rather stemmed from a desire for greater creative control and a fairer recognition of his artistic contributions. He painted a picture of conflicting visions and a growing divergence in their understanding of his role within their broader musical enterprise.
Despite opting to decline the offer from Psquare, May D emphasized that there were no hard feelings between them. He expressed gratitude for the opportunities he was given, acknowledging the invaluable experience and exposure he gained during his time with Square Records. He portrayed his decision as a strategic move to align himself with opportunities that better suited his long-term career goals. While acknowledging the potential benefits of remaining under Psquare’s wing, he ultimately believed that charting his own course was the best way to fully realize his individual artistic vision and achieve his maximum potential. He underscored that this decision was not about ego or disrespect, but about pursuing a path that he believed would ultimately lead to greater artistic fulfillment and success on his own terms.
May D’s story serves as a compelling case study for aspiring musicians navigating the complexities of the music industry. His experience highlights the importance of carefully evaluating contracts, understanding one’s worth, and prioritizing artistic vision. His decision to decline a seemingly lucrative offer from established stars underscores the value of long-term strategic thinking and the courage to pursue one’s own path, even when it diverges from the conventional trajectory. His candid reflections offer valuable insights for other artists facing similar dilemmas, encouraging them to prioritize their own creative and professional goals while navigating the often-challenging landscape of the music business. This story provides a glimpse into the difficult decisions artists face, emphasizing the need for transparency, effective communication, and well-defined agreements within the industry.
