BMG’s CEO Hartwig Masuch wrote a message on racism and sent it to artists and managers who work with them.
Phonte of Little Brother has since responded to the message., blasting the label and the music industry for how they treat artists.
Masuch's messages come at a time when companies are being called out left and right for racism. It's been happening since protests began for George Floyd last month, the black man who died while being arrested by a former Minnieapolis police officer.
“Mindful of the music industry’s record of shameful treatment of black artists, we have begun a review of all historic record contracts," read Masuch's message. "While BMG only began operations in 2008, we have acquired many older catalogues. If there are any inequities or anomalies, we will create a plan to address them. Within 30 days.”
Little Brother released their first album The Listening on ABB Records,which is no longer around. They signed a deal with Atlantic Records in 2005 for their album The Minstrel Show but went independent right after that. Phonte responded to BMG on Friday through a series of tweets.
The entire music business was built on predatory lending. A record deal is just a glorified payday loan.
— Phonte (@phontigallo) June 12, 2020
I’m thankful for the short time I was signed to a record label because it taught me a lot about myself. Mainly, that I could never put my creative destiny in someone else’s hands. My spirit just won’t allow it.
— Phonte (@phontigallo) June 12, 2020
It took me years to find the right language to express it, but deep down, signing a record deal always made me feel neglectful.
— Phonte (@phontigallo) June 12, 2020
You’re just gonna give up the rights to your God given gift and entrust strangers to protect and nurture it? pic.twitter.com/JoTxSPK58Q
What do you think about Phontigallo's tweets?