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Table of Contents
- 🎶 Stonebwoy and Zylofon Media: A Ghanaian Music Partnership That Fell Apart
- 🌟 The Signing: A Match Made in Music Heaven?
- ⚠️ Trouble in Paradise: Rivalries and Red Flags
- 🔥 The Breakup: Stonebwoy Walks Away
- 📉 Aftermath: Lessons Learned
- 🎤 Final Thoughts: A Cautionary Tale
OVERVIEW
In 2017, Ghanaian dancehall artist Stonebwoy signed a high-profile management deal with Zylofon Media, a rising entertainment company led by Nana Appiah Mensah (NAM1). The partnership was initially seen as a strategic move to boost Stonebwoy’s brand with financial and promotional support.
However, by 2018, tensions emerged—especially after Zylofon signed Stonebwoy’s rival Shatta Wale. Stonebwoy reportedly felt sidelined and disagreed with the label’s internal dynamics. The situation escalated with public disputes, social media unfollows, and an alleged altercation over a company car.
In 2019, Stonebwoy confirmed he would not renew his contract, citing creative differences. Despite the fallout, he expressed personal respect for NAM1, even during the Menzgold financial scandal that rocked the company.
Stonebwoy’s departure marked a turning point: he regained independence and continued to thrive, while Zylofon Media’s influence waned amid legal troubles and artist exits. The saga remains a cautionary tale about the complexities of artist-label relationships in Ghana’s music industry.
🎶 Stonebwoy and Zylofon Media: A Ghanaian Music Partnership That Fell Apart
In Ghana’s ever-evolving music industry, few stories have stirred as much buzz as the dramatic fallout between dancehall heavyweight Stonebwoy and entertainment giant Zylofon Media. What began as a promising alliance quickly turned into a cautionary tale of creative differences, rivalry, and corporate missteps. Let’s dive into the rise and unraveling of this high-profile relationship.
🌟 The Signing: A Match Made in Music Heaven?
Back in June 2017, Stonebwoy—already a household name in Ghana and beyond—signed a management deal with Zylofon Music, a subsidiary of Zylofon Media. The company, led by businessman Nana Appiah Mensah (NAM1), was on a mission to dominate the entertainment scene by signing top-tier talent.
Stonebwoy’s deal was reportedly generous, offering financial support, promotional muscle, and access to Zylofon’s media platforms. Industry insiders hailed the move, predicting it would elevate Stonebwoy’s brand to new heights. With other big names like Shatta Wale, Becca, and Joyce Blessing already on board, Zylofon seemed poised to become Ghana’s entertainment powerhouse.
⚠️ Trouble in Paradise: Rivalries and Red Flags
By early 2018, however, things began to sour. Stonebwoy appeared increasingly uneasy with the label’s internal dynamics—especially after Zylofon signed his longtime rival, Shatta Wale. Their rivalry, already intense, became even more complicated under the same roof.
Reports emerged of Stonebwoy feeling marginalized, with concerns about favoritism and lack of creative control. Social media added fuel to the fire when Zylofon Media and NAM1 unfollowed Stonebwoy on Instagram—a subtle but telling sign of discord.
The tension reached a boiling point during an alleged altercation at the Champions League Pub in East Legon. Zylofon representatives reportedly tried to retrieve a car given to Stonebwoy as part of his contract. Though details remain unclear, the incident highlighted the deepening rift.
🔥 The Breakup: Stonebwoy Walks Away
As the drama unfolded, Stonebwoy began distancing himself from Zylofon Media. He stopped using the label’s branding and reportedly hired his own team for bookings and promotions. In interviews, he remained diplomatic but made it clear that the partnership was no longer working.
In February 2019, Stonebwoy confirmed he had two months left on his contract and would not renew it. Interestingly, despite the fallout, he expressed support for NAM1, especially during the Menzgold scandal, where the CEO was accused of running a fraudulent gold dealership. Stonebwoy described NAM1 as a man of “truth and honour,” showing that personal respect endured even as professional ties were severed.
📉 Aftermath: Lessons Learned
Stonebwoy’s exit had ripple effects. For him, it marked a return to independence and full control over his brand. He continued to thrive, releasing hit songs, touring globally, and winning awards. His fanbase remained loyal, and many applauded his decision to walk away.
For Zylofon Media, the departure was a major blow. The company’s reputation suffered, especially as the Menzgold scandal deepened. Many of its artists left or became inactive, and the grand vision of a media empire began to fade.
🎤 Final Thoughts: A Cautionary Tale
The Stonebwoy-Zylofon saga is more than just celebrity drama—it’s a powerful lesson in the importance of transparency, respect, and creative freedom in artist-label relationships. While flashy deals and big promises can be tempting, they don’t always guarantee harmony.
Today, Stonebwoy stands tall as one of Ghana’s most influential artists, and his decision to part ways with Zylofon Media is seen as a defining moment in his journey. For upcoming artists and industry players, this story serves as a reminder: not all that glitters is gold.
Source - Societal vibz