Jumai Adedoja Fabuyi is forging a new path at the intersection of creativity and commerce. Recently conferred with the ‘Global Hero Award’ for her extraordinary contribution to the growth of technology and efforts to simplify digital processes, the seasoned entertainment lawyer, DJ, and music industry expert is harnessing the power of technology to empower Nigerian artists and shape the future of Afrobeats. In this interview with Sunday Ehigiator, the trailblazing entrepreneur, and Chief Operating Officer at The Scar Radio, speaks on how she is transforming the Nigerian music landscape and paving the way for a brighter future.
How did you become interested in entertainment law and Afrobeats?
My journey into entertainment law, especially Afrobeats, was inspired by a mix of passion, timing, and, if I’m being honest, a bit of fate! Growing up, I was surrounded by music as my dad loved music so much. The music he listened to told our stories and echoed our struggles and triumphs. Afrobeats, especially, became this powerful, global force, and I was drawn to the legal side of it because I wanted to help our artists get the recognition, protection, and fair deals they deserved.
As an entertainment lawyer, I’m not just navigating contracts; I’m part of the heartbeat of this industry. Whether it’s clearing tracks for Nigerian musicians or brokering deals that allow their art to travel worldwide, I’m right there ensuring they’re set up for success. The Nigerian music industry is booming and being a part of it while also standing up for our artists it’s both thrilling and deeply meaningful to me. And if I can mix some beats and bills along the way? Even better!”
What’s a standout deal you’ve brokered for a Nigerian musician?
Absolutely! A notable one was seeing a track I facilitated get nominated for the Grammys. One of the most exciting parts of my work is seeing Nigerian artists make waves both at home and abroad, and I’ve had the pleasure of brokering some major deals that bring their unique sound to wider audiences.
Without getting into specifics (client confidentiality is key, of course), I’ve facilitated deals that have connected my clients with well-known music labels and have even been Grammy-nominated, from local powerhouses in Lagos to African giants.
Whether it’s setting up contracts that let their music reach new ears across continents or ensuring fair terms so they’re properly credited and compensated, each deal is like setting up a launch pad for their art to soar.
There’s something incredibly rewarding about watching a track you helped clear blow up on the charts; it’s like playing a tiny, behind-the-scenes part in a global jam session.
How do you guide artists in protecting their creative interests?
Guiding artists to make smart choices is all about bridging the gap between creativity and legality. I always start by breaking down the ‘legal speak’ into everyday language—no one wants to feel lost in a maze of terms and conditions!
For contracts, I explain each clause so they know exactly what they’re signing up for, especially regarding intellectual property. Artists need to know where their rights start and stop, whether it’s around copyright, royalties, or ownership of their master recordings.
Beyond the paperwork, I also help them understand the bigger picture: how these decisions impact their long-term careers.
Whether it’s licensing, royalties, or ownership rights, I give them a clear view of how each choice can affect not just their next track but their entire legacy. At the end of the day, I want my clients to feel confident and empowered about their craft and business, so they’re not just artists—they’re also savvy entrepreneurs.
What obstacles do you face in Nigerian music law, and how do you overcome them?
The Nigerian music industry is an exciting but sometimes unpredictable place to work. One big challenge is the issue of intellectual property protection—piracy is still a major hurdle, and enforcing copyright can feel like chasing the wind.
To tackle this, I make sure my clients have rock-solid contracts and guide them on strategies for safeguarding their work in digital spaces where it can be more vulnerable.
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