In Nigeria, after an artiste records one album at a record company, it has become common practice for him or her to walk out. Olamide did it, Lil Kesh did it, Brymo did it and Wizkid did it. And they all had their different reasons.
But for Nigerian rapper, Yusuf Abubakar Sodiq, aka CDQ, an artiste walking out of a record label after an album should not be treated as a big deal. He told our correspondent, who was at his album’s autograph session on Monday in Surulere, Lagos, that it was possible such artiste’s contract had expired and he decided not to renew it.
“After an album and an artiste decide to leave, it is possible that his contract with the label had expired. If my agreement with my label finishes, I could leave as well.” I plan to own a label someday, but it is confidential for now.
The General Records act, who released his debut album, ‘Quality,’ on Monday, stated that four songs on the 15-track album were so dear to him. “I do not joke with ‘Nowosoke’ ft Wizkid, ‘Odikwa Okay’ ft. Banky W, ‘Olowo’ ft Reminisce and ‘Shanawole’ with Ice Prince,” he said.
He noted that the love he was getting had been massive. “I believe the album would give my career a turnaround. I will be shooting some videos off the albums soon and I plan to work on international collaborations as well”.
CDQ stressed that rapping in Yoruba language would not limit the reach of his music. He believes music is universal regardless of the language barrier.
“So, I do not see how language will affect my music. I do not understand what Diamond Platnumz from Tanzania sings, but I feel his songs,” he added.
While admitting that rap music is still struggling in Nigeria, he maintained that few artistes had been putting in their best to ensure that rap music remained relevant.
“I feel very good that I am where I am today and I tried not to be carried away. I feel opportune and blessed, but I also know I am not better than the man on the street. Any position I am today, I feel honoured,” he stated.
