News of DopeNation’s exit from Lynx Entertainment hit industry players and fans with a bang; some actually expressing disbelief. Parting ways a year after signing a contract? What! How! Why! – An indication that many were puzzled over the report.
It was only on April 29, 2019, when the record label announced via its Facebook page that the dope twins were part of the family. It was not a dry announcement; news of the release of ‘Zanku’ was broadcast and many could not wait to consume the song considering the track record of the duo.
“Lynx Entertainment is proud to announce the newest addition to the family. We welcome DopeNation with a brand-new banger tomorrow…Zanku. Are you ready for this?” caption of the post read.
The big announcement came a few weeks after speculations were rife that MzVee had left the label. Although details of the contract were not made public at the time, Richie Mensah, Chief Executive Officer of Lynx Entertainment a few days ago said the label and DopeNation signed a short-term contract, adding that they had to move on after the expiration.
While some have questioned what could have prevented any or both parties from renewing the contract, Richie maintained in his submission on 3FM that although there is no official engagement, the group can utilize certain resources they gained during their time on the label.
“They are even using the music video director we introduced to them,” he said.
Aside from conjecturing over possible causes of the disinterest to renew the contract, the success or otherwise of the group has become a subject for discussion taking into cognisance the performances of artistes in the aftermath of their respective exits from the label.
Arguably, Eazzy, Asem, OJ Blaq, Ziggy among others have not been as hot as they were during their days with Lynx Entertainment hence, the conversation as regards whether or not DopeNation will break the jinx.
It is imperative to state that DopeNation, before penning a deal with Lynx had inked its name in the minds of music enthusiasts with the release of hit singles - ‘Eish’, ‘Naami,’ ‘Uh Huh’ and ‘Ibi Tins’ and that is what makes the group distinct from other former signees.
Although the contribution of the label in the elevation of the DopeNation brand cannot be overlooked no matter how minute or otherwise it was, one can argue that their ability to garner that level of visibility and audience appeal even before becoming signees of the label is enough justification they can excel.
That notwithstanding, the brand, arguably, has become bigger, hence the need for a dedicated and competent team to throw its weight behind the duo.
Can/will the jinx be broken?
DopeNation is no more with Lynx Entertainment