There is not one single formula for success: An Interview With the CEO of iMuzic Record Label
Award-winning record label iMuzic Record Label who newly signed a versatile artiste LEKSYD. Based in Lagos, Nigeria and led by CEO OLUWATOMI DICKSON FATUBI also know as Alhaji Dickson, With nearly two decades of experience building acts both local and Platinum, the label recently made headlines with a song from Leksyd featuring 9ice tittles Holy Micheal. We hooked up with OLUWATOMI DICKSON FATUBI, CEO and founder of iMuzic Record label, to learn how the label has helped the signed artist, what criteria they look for in artists, and advice for emerging artists and upcoming Record label CEOs who are trying to break into the music business.
Hi Alhaji Dickson! Thank you so much for being part of our series. We’re excited to have this interview with you. Can you give us a little introduction to iMuzic Record Label?
Alhaji Dickson: Just like many aspects in the music industry, the company has morphed with the times. I started the label from my second bedroom out of pure passion for music. I had a day job so I did this on my extra time and weekends. As my time was limited and I didn’t have any funding, I had to be careful with each step and expense. I learned a lot by reading music business books, buying magazines and fanzines, asking around and eventually started making connections in the industry. Once I got national distribution, things got a bit easier and the label started to grow. As we continued to develop we are now taking the label to a global stage.
iMuzic Record Label was founded with the goal of helping underground artists become a star. How has the label maintained that philosophy?
Alhaji Dickson: Ever since I was a little kid my philosophy still remains the same which is to help bring people up. When the label started, we signed Leksyd and look where he is today, he has one of the biggest EPs out right now titled “Expect The Unexpected (ETU)”. It is a great honor to see him grow to the artist he is today, and he has not started yet.
What advice can you give to emerging artists or people who are trying to break into the music business?
Alhaji Dickson: Music comes first so write great songs. At the same time, it’s important to develop a strong live performance, strong visuals and build a strong connection with your audience. Social Media is key and that has to be done constantly. Try to offer something new daily and educate yourself as much as possible on all facets of the music industry. Networking is key, too, as one new contact can make the whole difference. There are many tools out there for artists and find out what can bring the best results. There is not one single formula for success; so don’t be afraid to experiment until you discover what works best for you.
Lastly, do you have other businesses you do aside from running a record label?
Alhaji Dickson: Aside from been the Chairman of iMuzic Record Label I am also the CEO of the iBasfat Lounge/iclub, ibasfat luxury autoz Nigeria.