JTON Music, former record label of singer Qing Madi, has denied allegations by the artiste that it deliberately removed her songs from Spotify to frustrate her career.
The label was reacting to claims made by Qing Madi during a TikTok livestream and on her social media platforms, where she accused JTON of pulling down “Pepper Me,” her collaboration with Zinoleesky, despite the song’s strong performance on streaming platforms.
The singer also alleged that the label had engaged in a pattern of harassment aimed at stalling her career and claimed it previously filed a $1 million lawsuit against her and lost.
However, in a statement shared on X and Instagram, JTON Music described the allegations as “false, unfair, and misleading,” insisting that the dispute was strictly legal and commercial.
The label said the matter concerns contractual rights, investments and music ownership, adding that it had only taken lawful steps to protect its business interests.
“Ordinarily, we would not respond to matters that are already before a competent Court of law. However, given the nature of the statements being circulated, it has become necessary to clarify JTON’s position in the interest of fairness, accuracy, and public understanding. JTON Music is a law-abiding company. At all times, JTON has chosen to seek justice and protect its rights strictly through lawful means and within the ambit of the law,” the statement reads.
“For clarity, JTON did not initiate this dispute in the public space. The artist first approached the Court, and JTON has only taken lawful steps in response to protect its investment, business interests, contractual rights, and the work put into the artist’s career.
“JTON has no personal issue with the artist. This matter is not about intimidation, bullying, or any threat to her person. It is a legal and commercial dispute concerning rights, obligations, investment, and the protection of works and opportunities developed during the course of a professional relationship.
“It is therefore deeply concerning that the matter is now being presented online as though JTON or its officers are threatening the artist’s life or engaging in harassment. These allegations are false, unfair, and capable of misleading the public. JTON categorically states that it has not threatened the artist, nor has it authorized anyone to threaten, harass, intimidate, or endanger her in any way. Any suggestion to the contrary is completely denied.”
JTON explained that the removal of some songs from Spotify followed a partial interlocutory injunction granted by a Lagos High Court restraining Qing Madi from releasing or performing music allegedly produced, promoted or financed under the label pending the determination of the suit.
The label also said it has recording and distribution agreements with Sony Music and Bu Vision, stressing that all parties involved must respect existing contractual arrangements.
“The recent ruling of the High Court of Lagos State, Nigeria, should not be misrepresented. The Court did not hold that JTON had no case. In fact, the Court granted part of JTON’S interlocutory injunction application and restrained the artist from releasing, publishing, or performing music, recordings, or content produced, promoted, or financed under JTON and entering into new agreement or deals using the brand or professional platform developed by JTON pending the determination of the suit It is important to also note that, JTON Music also has a recording and distribution agreement with Sony Music and Bu Vision,” the statement added.
“These arrangements remain subject to lawful enforcement and must be respected by all parties. Where recordings fall within those arrangements, they cannot be released, distributed, or commercially exploited outside the agreed structure without the necessary authorization. JTON’s position is simply to ensure that all parties respect existing obligations.
“JTON remains committed to due process. All actions taken so far, and all actions to be taken going forward, will be within the confines of the law and under the supervision of the Court in Nigeria and in New York. We urge the public, media platforms, commentators, and fans to allow the judicial process to take its course and to refrain from spreading unverified claims that may prejudice the ongoing proceedings.
“JTON will continue to respect the Court, respect the artist’s personhood and autonomy, and pursue its legal and contractual rights responsibly. The company remains committed to honouring all valid agreements and resolving disputes through the proper legal and contractual processes.
