Written & Published by Scout Booth | July 2025
On June 9, 2025, Kizz Daniel shared life changing news with his fans: he now owns all the masters to his “New Era” album and hit singles “Yeba” and “Sofa.” This milestone didn’t come easy it was the result of long studio nights, persistent battles, and likely complex negotiations. His announcement is more than personal victory, it’s a teachable moment for every artist trying to navigate the music industry.
In 2016, Kizz Daniel released his debut album, New Era, in under G-Worldwide Entertainment, a label known for its strict contract structures. During his time with G-Worldwide, the label allegedly restricted his collaborations and tightly controlled his brand, music, and income streams.
After a public fallout, Kizz Daniel exited the label in 2017 and founded his own imprint, Flyboy Inc.
However, the legal battle that followed reportedly involved a ban on using his own stage name and a claim over the rights to his past music. Which birthed the rebrand from ‘Kiss Daniel’ to the ‘Kizz Daniel’ we now know today. It’s taken years of mediation and negotiations for him to finally regain control over the works that launched his career.
He shared the news on X (formerly Twitter).
This is good news, no doubt. However, it doesn’t change the fact that not every artist gets this lucky. We also shouldn’t overlook the emotional stress, missed opportunities, and the unknown consequences he may have endured during this period, including the years lost.
To avoid falling into a similar situation, keep reading
What Are Masters and Why Do They Matter?
The master is the original recording of a song. Whoever owns the master earns money whenever the track is streamed, sampled, played in public, licensed in movies or commercials, or otherwise exploited.
If you don’t own your masters then:
• You only earn performance/mechanical royalties.
• Your label can license your work without your permission.
• You may not have creative control over how your music is used.
Lessons for Upcoming Artists: How to Avoid Losing Your Masters
1. Understand the Deal You’re Signing
Don’t rush into contracts for the promise of fame.
Understand:
• Who owns the masters?
• What’s the royalty split?
• Are there options to renegotiate ownership after a period?
2. Hire a Music Lawyer Early
Legal terms can be tricky, and one wrong signature can cost you more than you realize. Always get a professional to break down the terms before you sign anything — especially contracts that involve rights, royalties, or long-term commitments.
If you’re worried about costs, don’t panic. There are entertainment lawyers who are open to working with emerging artists, sometimes on flexible terms.
If you don’t know where to find them, we can help.
Scout Booth can help point you in the right direction, reach out via @scoutboothng on social media, scoutbooth.org@gmail.com, or WhatsApp: +234 817 946 0792.
3. Negotiate for Master Ownership or Reversion Rights
If you’re signing with a label, push for:
• Co-ownership
• Reversion clauses (e.g., you get masters back after 5-10 years)
• Profit-sharing instead of giving up ownership
4. Start Independent if Possible
Today, artists have more power than ever. With digital tools, you can release music, grow a fanbase, and earn, all while keeping your masters.
But being independent doesn’t mean doing it all alone.
Platforms like Scout Booth exist to guide and support artists on that journey, helping you develop, stay visible, and make smart moves without losing control of your work.
Because owning your music shouldn’t mean walking the path alone.
Stay independent or not. Grow smart. Own your music. Scout Booth has your back!!!
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