eLDee denies plans to start new music association

Ace music producer and performing artist eLDee has denied any intention of forming a new musical association to rival the Performing Musicians Employers Association of Nigeria (PMAN). Speaking in an exclusive conversation with X2, the former Trybesmen member revealed that, contrary to speculations that younger musicians want to form a new union — since their visit to a PMAN meeting in Osogbo earlier this year was perceived as an intrusion — they will only act as a pressure group.

“We have no intention of forming a new musicians’ association,” the Trybes Records boss said. “We went to Osogbo asking to be involved in PMAN’s activities, but they said we were being used by Tony Okoroji to come and collect the money the federal government promised to pump into the entertainment industry. Can you see the type of mentality they have?” eLDee said disappointedly.

“Since they don’t want us involved, we will continue to act as a pressure group and continue to pursue our right to copyright protection and payment of royalties as a pressure group.” eLDee, who made 2009 hit song ‘Big Boy’, also denies the accusation that the trip to Oshogbo was sponsored by Tony Okoroji for personal gains. “Am I a kid that someone will be using?” eLDee asked dismissingly.

Earlier this year, mainstream acts including eLDee, Chocolate City rapper M.I, and Empire Mate Entertainment boss Banky W, visited the venue of a PMAN convention in Oshogbo and it was reported that the current executives of the association did not welcome their presence. Earlier this month, eLDee launched the ‘Top Talent’ initiative to help develop young music hopefuls.