Four years ago, Yo Gotti landed the highest-charting album of his career after joining forces with a major record label. Now the established rap star is out of his contract, having delivered all four albums it called for—but he’s not rushing to sign a new long-term deal.
Instead, the 39-year-old Memphis rapper has said he bought full ownership of his music, suggesting he exercised an option in his contract with Sony Corp.’s Epic Records to acquire 100% of his recording copyrights, also known as master recordings. Historically, such “masters” have been the music industry’s crown jewels, held by record labels in perpetuity in exchange for taking on the financial risks of recording and promoting new artists, most of whom fail to become profitable superstars.
“Out My Deal, Own My MASTERS,” Yo Gotti posted on Instagram Feb. 4, after releasing the final record in his Epic deal, titled “Untrapped.” “My masters are my art,” Yo Gotti told The Wall Street Journal. “Not only are they valuable to me personally, but from a professional standpoint, they also serve as a business asset.”
NeilShahWSJ The one question you did not ask was to see Gotti’s deal he offers his artists. I wonder how copyrights are handled.
Outbursts? Really, Weird word choice. What specifically about kanyewest critiquing the record industry do you find so out of line? Would you treat a White artist's opinion to the same condescension? 😒
RocNation Check his own record deals with his G.O.O.D Music artist. He claims their terms are unfavorable, but what about what is going on in his own company?
Kanye and other artist may need to find mor independent ways for distribution of their recordings. Big business, I am sure very frustrating! In 2024 looking forward to your campaign as you consider running for President! I support Trump in 2020!
That’s fine, I haven’t bought one crappy album and never will.
There’s a demand side to this. People won’t pay $20/month for streaming services
The people will pay more. Some will some won’t.
'What kind of Church are you? Are you the one that has an earthly Focus or the one that focuses on the Coming Glory? What you do now here on earth determines where you will spend your eternity. ExpressFridayVigil