Did you know that some artists make more money from publishing rights than from performing?
This is because when a song is written, there are two sides to the money:
• The master recording (usually owned by a label), and
• The publishing rights (owned by the songwriter or producer)
This means that if you write or co-write a song, you’ll keep earning royalties forever every time it’s streamed, played on radio, or used in a film even if someone else sings it.
It is how songwriters like Teni, CKay, Peruzzi, Seyi Say & Cobham Asuquo made their first millions before becoming stars — because they were getting paid off other people’s hits.
As far as the Nigerian pen game is concerned, there’s a lot going on in the background between artists, hit songs and songwriters and here’s some BTS for you:
Here are a few Nigerian artists who made money (or big breaks) as songwriters before or alongside becoming stars:
1. Ckay: Before “Love Nwantiti” went global, Ckay was producing and writing for others under Chocolate City. He co-wrote songs for artists like MI Abaga and Ice Prince, earning early royalties that kept him afloat while building his own solo career.
2. Seyi Shay: Before she dropped hits like “Right Now”, Seyi Shay was writing for international acts. She co-wrote “You Will See” for Melanie C of the Spice Girls and “White Lies” for Chipmunk.That publishing income helped her transition smoothly into stardom.
3. Peruzzi: Peruzzi was a ghostwriter before joining DMW. He co-wrote Davido’s “FIA” and “Risky”, which means each stream or performance still sends him publishing royalties.
4. Harrysong: Before “Reggae Blues”, Harrysong was writing jingles and songs for artists under Question Mark and Five Star Music. He penned the MTN “Welcome Tune” anthem that blew up nationwide, reportedly earning him millions in royalties.
5. Cobhams Asuquo: The legendary producer-songwriter behind Asa’s “Jailer” and “Fire on the Mountain” earns steady royalties every year. He’s one of Nigeria’s most respected publishing powerhouses and proof that the pen can pay.