Papi Adabraka Opens Up on Royalty Dispute with Appietus, Says He's Done With Management

Former 5Five member Papi , now performing as Papi Adabraka has spoken for the first time in detail about the royalty dispute that strained his relationship with producer Appietus, revealing that their hit song "Mujebaya" was uploaded to streaming platforms without the group's knowledge and monetised for years before they found out.

Speaking in an interview with Kafui Dey, Papi alleged that he and his groupmates never received royalties from digital streams of their hit song Mujebaya.

According to Papi, the issue came to light when he attempted to distribute some of his music digitally during his comeback efforts in 2022 and 2023.

“We never put it over there,” he said. “One of the digital distributors checked and found that the song was already on the streaming platforms. When they checked the records, it was under Creative Studios.”

Papi said Creative Studios was associated with Appietus, prompting him and his team to reach out to the producer for clarification.

He explained that Appietus initially admitted the song had been included among other recordings distributed digitally and discussions began on how the matter could be resolved.

“We spoke about it and it was cool. He sent some bank slips for Bulldog to check and we were trying to find a way forward,” Papi said.

However, the situation later escalated after Appietus publicly suggested that 5Five had not paid for the recording of Mujebaya.

“I was surprised. We had discussed the matter and he had accepted his fault and was willing to pay. Then he went public with those comments and that’s how the whole thing blew up,” he stated.

Although legal action was considered, Papi said he ultimately decided against taking the matter to court.

“Going to court could take years and cost more money than what you’re trying to recover,” he explained.

“It’s still monetized and it’s in his name. I’ve not received a dime from it,” he alleged.

The musician also revealed that the dispute strained relationships among those involved and eventually faded without a formal resolution.

Asked about his current relationship with Appietus, Papi indicated there is no active communication between them but said he harbours no personal grudge.

“I don’t have a problem with anybody. Money is my only issue,” he said.

Reflecting on the experience, Papi expressed disappointment with artist management structures in the music industry, claiming many managers only support artistes during successful periods.

“Management only cares about you when you’re popping. When the hits stop, they don’t really care about you,” he said.

Papi, who now operates independently under his own label, Adabraka Records, said he is focused on rebuilding his career following the release of a new EP.