In the music industry, trust is everything. As an artist, you need someone who has your back—someone who understands your vision, negotiates the best deals, and ensures your money is safe.
That’s why many musicians turn to family members to manage their careers. It feels like the safest bet. After all, if you can’t trust your own blood, who can you trust?
But history has shown that when money and music mix, even family bonds can snap.
When the Person You Trust the Most Becomes the Problem
The headlines always hit hard: Artist sues former manager over missing funds. Music duo in legal battle with their longtime manager. Family feud erupts over unpaid royalties.
It’s the same story, just with different names. And now, another case is making waves—this time, involving an artist’s own elder brother.
It’s one thing to have a dispute with a label or a business partner, but when the conflict is with someone you grew up with? That’s a different kind of pain.
In this recent case, a well-known Nigerian music duo is caught in a financial battle with their former manager—who also happens to be their elder brother. Allegations of missing funds, legal accusations, and the kind of drama that no one ever expects when they start making music together.
And this isn’t an isolated case.
History Repeats Itself: Artists vs. Their Own Managers
Even outside of family, artists have found themselves in messy breakups with their managers. Look at the case of Lil Wayne and Birdman—once inseparable, their legal battle over unpaid earnings and contract breach put a strain on their relationship.
So, what’s the lesson here?
Music is Art, but the Business is Ruthless
Too many artists step into the industry focused only on the creative side, leaving the business side in the hands of someone they trust. But trust alone isn’t enough.
Before you hand over control of your career—even to family—ask yourself:
- Is there a clear contract in place?
- Do you have access to all financial records?
- Are there checks and balances, or does one person hold all the power?
A lot of these disputes could be avoided if artists treated their careers like the businesses they are. Because at the end of the day, money changes people. Even family.
How to Protect Yourself
If you’re an independent artist—or even if you’re just starting out—here’s what you need to do:
- Put everything in writing. Contracts aren’t merely for record labels; they’re for managers too. If money is involved, get it documented.
- Get a financial advisor. Your manager shouldn’t be the only person handling your money. Have someone else oversee financial transactions.
- Educate yourself. Know how royalties work. Know where your money is coming from and where it’s going.
- Trust, but verify. Even if your manager is your brother, sister, cousin, or childhood friend—always check the numbers.
The Uncomfortable Reality
Artists don’t get into music expecting to one day drag their own managers to court. No one starts a career thinking, One day, I might have to sue my own brother. But it happens—more often than you’d think.
So before things ever reach that point, take control of your business. Because in the end, the music industry has only one rule: eat, or be eaten.
