Nigerian Singer Reekado Banks Reflects on Premature Exit from Mavin Records
In a candid interview, Nigerian singer Reekado Banks has revealed that he regrets leaving his former record label, Mavin Records, prematurely. Banks, who rose to fame after signing with Mavin Records and winning the Rookie of the Year at The Headies 2014, departed the label in 2018 to launch his own imprint, Banks Music.
Speaking with reality star Teddy A on the Echoo Room, Banks confessed that he only realized the gravity of his decision when he began handling the music business on his own. He emphasized that his exit from Mavin Records was not due to a disagreement, but rather a personal desire to move forward. Banks had signed a three-year contract with the label, which ended two years prior to his departure. Instead of renewing the contract, he allowed it to lapse, staying with the label for an additional two years without reviewing the terms.
Banks’ decision to leave Mavin Records was driven by his youth and determination to take control of his career. He stated, “I was pretty young and pretty fixated on what I wanted to do – I wanted to leave.” However, as he navigated the industry independently, he realized the magnitude of his decision. Banks acknowledged, “As soon as I jumped into the sea, I realized how premature it was.”
The singer’s departure from Mavin Records raised eyebrows in the music industry, with many speculating about the circumstances surrounding his exit. However, Banks has consistently maintained that there was no conflict or disagreement between him and the label.
In retrospect, Banks’ experience serves as a cautionary tale for young artists considering taking the reins of their careers. While independence can be a liberating force, it also requires a tremendous amount of responsibility and business acumen. Banks’ candid admission about his premature exit from Mavin Records underscores the importance of careful planning and consideration in making such pivotal decisions.
As the music industry continues to evolve, Reekado Banks’ story serves as a reminder that success is not solely dependent on talent, but also on the ability to navigate the complexities of the business. With his own imprint, Banks Music, now established, the singer is poised to forge a new path, wiser and more experienced from his time at Mavin Records.
