Street-hop sensation Crown Uzama, better known as Shallipopi, has officially confirmed his departure from Dvpper Music Entertainment, signaling a significant shift in his career as he focuses on establishing his own record label, which already boasts a roster of artists.
The 24-year-old rapper and singer from Benin burst onto the music scene in 2023 with viral hits like Elon Musk, Oscroh, and Cast. His meteoric rise continued in 2024 with the release of his debut album Shakespopi, a high-profile feature on Rema’s smash hit, Benin Boys, and a viral collaboration on Juju, a track by Abuja-based femcee Smur Lee featuring Odumodublvck that took TikTok by storm.
Rumours of Shallipopi’s departure had circulated for weeks, fuelled by speculation about Seyi Vibez, another street-hop artist, potentially leaving Dvpper Music after he wiped his Instagram page clean and updated his bio to “independent.” Shallipopi initially addressed the rumours in an interview, stating that his contract with Dvpper Music had naturally ended, adding that there was no bad blood and that it simply felt like the right time to move on.
However, on December 11, 2024, via his Instagram page, Shallipopi shared conflicting details about his exit, alleging betrayal by Dvpper Music. He accused the label of not prioritising his growth, lacking transparency in financial dealings, mishandling his career, and pressuring him to sign an exploitative indefinite contract that would see him part ways with 30% of his earnings even when he is no longer with the imprint.
As Shallipopi transitions to running his self-owned label, fans are eager to see how this new chapter will unfold for the street-hop star.
