Jumai Fabuyi: Bridging Music, Law, and Technology for a Brighter Future
Jumai Adedoja Fabuyi is forging a new path at the intersection of creativity and commerce. Recently conferred with the ‘Global Hero Award’ for her extraordinary contribution to the growth of technology and efforts to simplify digital processes, the seasoned entertainment lawyer, DJ, and music industry expert is harnessing the power of technology to empower Nigerian artists and shape the future of Afrobeats. In this interview with Sunday Ehigiator, the trailblazing entrepreneur, and Chief Operating Officer at The Scar Radio, speaks on how she is transforming the Nigerian music landscape and paving the way for a brighter future.
How did you become interested in entertainment law and Afrobeats?
My journey into entertainment law, especially Afrobeats, was inspired by a mix of passion, timing, and, if I’m being honest, a bit of fate! Growing up, I was surrounded by music as my dad loved music so much. The music he listened to told our stories and echoed our struggles and triumphs. Afrobeats, especially, became this powerful, global force, and I was drawn to the legal side of it because I wanted to help our artists get the recognition, protection, and fair deals they deserved.
As an entertainment lawyer, I’m not just navigating contracts; I’m part of the heartbeat of this industry. Whether it’s clearing tracks for Nigerian musicians or brokering deals that allow their art to travel worldwide, I’m right there ensuring they’re set up for success. The Nigerian music industry is booming and being a part of it while also standing up for our artists it’s both thrilling and deeply meaningful to me. And if I can mix some beats and bills along the way? Even better!”
What’s a standout deal you’ve brokered for a Nigerian musician?
Absolutely! A notable one was seeing a track I facilitated get nominated for the Grammys. One of the most exciting parts of my work is seeing Nigerian artists make waves both at home and abroad, and I’ve had the pleasure of brokering some major deals that bring their unique sound to wider audiences.
Without getting into specifics (client confidentiality is key, of course), I’ve facilitated deals that have connected my clients with well-known music labels and have even been Grammy-nominated, from local powerhouses in Lagos to African giants.
Whether it’s setting up contracts that let their music reach new ears across continents or ensuring fair terms so they’re properly credited and compensated, each deal is like setting up a launch pad for their art to soar.
There’s something incredibly rewarding about watching a track you helped clear blow up on the charts; it’s like playing a tiny, behind-the-scenes part in a global jam session.
How do you guide artists in protecting their creative interests?
Guiding artists to make smart choices is all about bridging the gap between creativity and legality. I always start by breaking down the ‘legal speak’ into everyday language—no one wants to feel lost in a maze of terms and conditions!
For contracts, I explain each clause so they know exactly what they’re signing up for, especially regarding intellectual property. Artists need to know where their rights start and stop, whether it’s around copyright, royalties, or ownership of their master recordings.
Beyond the paperwork, I also help them understand the bigger picture: how these decisions impact their long-term careers.
Whether it’s licensing, royalties, or ownership rights, I give them a clear view of how each choice can affect not just their next track but their entire legacy. At the end of the day, I want my clients to feel confident and empowered about their craft and business, so they’re not just artists—they’re also savvy entrepreneurs.
What obstacles do you face in Nigerian music law, and how do you overcome them?
The Nigerian music industry is an exciting but sometimes unpredictable place to work. One big challenge is the issue of intellectual property protection—piracy is still a major hurdle, and enforcing copyright can feel like chasing the wind.
To tackle this, I make sure my clients have rock-solid contracts and guide them on strategies for safeguarding their work in digital spaces where it can be more vulnerable.
Another big challenge is bridging the cultural gap when working with international labels. The way deals are structured in Nigeria can differ from industry norms abroad, so it’s about finding that middle ground where both sides are happy and protected.
I have to be quick on my feet and resourceful, sometimes getting creative with negotiations to ensure my artists get the terms they deserve.
And then there’s the fast-paced nature of the industry itself and artists doing everything before consulting a lawyer. It’s thrilling but also full of high stakes.
To keep up, I stay connected with legal trends, technology developments, and of course, the artists themselves, so I’m in tune with their needs and the latest shifts in the industry. It’s not easy, but it’s rewarding when we make it work!
How do you stay informed about changes in music industry regulations?
Guess what, I’m also a DJ, and this helps me first with the music ( figuring out a lot of genres and coming across new sounds every day) Staying on top of entertainment law is like trying to catch up with a hit single on its way to becoming a classic—constant and worth it!
I read everything I can get my hands on: industry journals, legal newsletters, and articles on new tech trends in entertainment, which is increasingly important as streaming platforms and digital rights evolve. I also participate in legal seminars and industry events that connect entertainment law with tech, privacy, and IP protection, since those areas are all colliding now.
I keep a close watch on landmark cases, especially those with potential impact on music and intellectual property rights. And, to make it interesting, I stay in touch with other attorneys in entertainment—those chats are full of valuable insights! For me, it’s all about blending legal updates with practical, everyday industry trends, so I’m always ready to protect my client’s rights in fresh, forward-thinking ways.
What inspired The Scar Production, and what services does it provide?
The Scar Production is the CEO’s brainchild. He has always been a hands-on person and a producer and wanted to bring his twist and spice into the production industry.
At The Scar Production, we’re like an entertainment boutique. We offer production services, manage bookings, and promote artists to help them thrive.
Our online radio station serves as a platform for emerging voices in Afrobeats, hip-hop, and other genres, reaching audiences in Nigeria, the UK, and the U.S. We’re here to support the artists who define our culture and to create a space where their talent can shine both locally and globally.
How do you coordinate artist development and production across multiple locations?
Managing artist development and production services across locations—from Lagos to Sheffield to Illinois—is like running a global jam session! It takes a mix of smart technology, clear communication, and a committed team. We’re big on staying connected digitally, using tools that let us collaborate seamlessly no matter the distance.
Each branch has a core team that understands the unique vibe of their local music scene. They handle artist scouting, events, and day-to-day operations, while I keep an eye on the big picture and ensure that everyone is aligned on our mission to elevate African talent.
We also host virtual check-ins where everyone can share updates and brainstorm together. This helps us adapt quickly to each location’s needs and keep our goals on track.
At the end of the day, it’s about creating a sense of unity despite the miles. Our team is passionate about the music and committed to each artist’s growth, which makes working across borders feel less like a challenge and more like a rhythm we’ve mastered.
What’s the story behind The Scar Radio’s rapid expansion?
Oh! This is interesting. The Scar Radio’s journey from a small WhatsApp group to a global platform is honestly one of my favourite stories to tell! It all started during the pandemic when people were craving connection and good vibes while stuck at home.
I’m a member of a WhatsApp group I have been on since my undergraduate days at the University of Lagos. Tobyshang and I started to share music on the group one evening with him adding his hype spice to the songs and sending in as voice notes, which quickly took on a life of its own. People loved discovering new tunes and debating which tracks were the best, so we took it up a notch and moved to Telegram to handle a growing crowd.
The excitement just kept building! We saw this huge opportunity to bring fresh African sounds to an even bigger audience, so we launched an online radio platform, and it’s been surreal ever since.
Today, The Scar Radio has a weekly audience of around 50,000 listeners tuning in from Nigeria, the UK, the U.S., and beyond.
We’re constantly adding new shows, curating playlists, and featuring both up-and-coming and established artists to keep that original energy alive. It’s a testament to the power of community, great music, and a little bit of pandemic creativity!
How do you juggle The Scar Production and Radio’s operational demands?
Balancing the demands of The Scar Production and The Scar Radio is like conducting an orchestra—each part has to hit the right note for the whole to work in harmony!
On the production side, it’s all about staying organized and making sure every artist, event, and project is moving forward on schedule. For The Scar Radio, it’s about keeping our content fresh, tracking listener feedback, and adapting quickly to what our audience wants to hear.
To make it all manageable, we’ve built a team we can count on and trust. Each branch has leaders who oversee local operations, so we can stay focused on strategy and big-picture growth.
We also carve out time each week to check in with different departments—whether it’s reviewing contracts, planning upcoming shows, or brainstorming new ways to spotlight our artists.
And honestly, I love every part of it! Keeping everything running smoothly is intense, but it’s that energy and variety that makes this work so rewarding.
What’s The Scar Radio’s impact on promoting Nigerian music worldwide?
The Scar Radio is like the ultimate ambassador for Nigerian music on the global stage! We’re all about showcasing the rich diversity and vibrant energy of Afrobeats and other Nigerian genres to listeners around the world.
By curating playlists that feature both emerging and established artists, we help bridge the gap between local talent and international audiences.
Our online platform makes it easy for anyone, anywhere to tune in and discover the sounds that make Nigerian music so infectious. We also collaborate with international DJs and influencers to amplify our reach, ensuring that our artists get the spotlight they deserve.
Plus, with live shows, interviews, and exclusive content, The Scar Radio creates a dynamic and engaging experience that keeps listeners hooked and eager for more. It’s all about turning up the volume on Nigerian creativity and making sure the world can’t get enough of it!
What leadership skills did you develop as Head of Justice Kayode Eso Student Chambers and President of NAOSS?
Being the Head of Justice Kayode Eso Student Chambers taught me some key leadership lessons that have stayed with me in my career. First, it taught me the importance of collaboration and listening.
Leading a student chamber meant working with a diverse group of individuals with varying opinions, and finding ways to unite them toward a common goal was crucial.
I had to delegate tasks, mediate disagreements, and make tough decisions—all while ensuring everyone felt valued and heard. Those skills have been invaluable in my current role as a leader in both law and entertainment.
As President of NAOSS, I learned that true leadership is about service. It wasn’t just about holding a title; it was about advocating for the needs of my peers. Under my leadership, we introduced bursaries for students, which was a huge step in addressing financial challenges.
That experience shaped my approach to advocacy by teaching me how to identify the needs of the community, create tangible solutions, and follow through with action.
It also instilled in me the importance of being transparent, relatable, and accountable—values I carry into my work, whether I’m advocating for artists or working on legal cases.
Both experiences gave me a deep sense of responsibility, taught me how to lead with empathy, and solidified my commitment to making a positive impact wherever I go.
What drew you to pursue an LL.M. in Intellectual Property and Tech Law?
My motivation to pursue an LL.M. in Intellectual Property and Technology Law was sparked by my work in the entertainment industry, especially with the intersection of music, tech, and law.
I’ve always been fascinated by how intellectual property shapes the creative world, and as the music industry increasingly evolves with streaming platforms, digital rights, and emerging technologies, I realized the need to have a deeper understanding of these areas.
For me, it was about gaining the tools to better navigate the complexities of protecting artists’ work in the digital age, ensuring they maintain control over their content and monetize it fairly.
Plus, with my growing interest in privacy law and data protection, this program felt like the perfect way to bridge the gap between the creative world and the legal tech space.
It wasn’t just about sharpening my skills—it was about staying ahead of the curve in an industry that’s always evolving and being able to offer the best counsel to my clients as they navigate the digital world.”
How has your education equipped you to navigate the entertainment-tech intersection?
My education has been a powerful foundation for navigating the exciting intersection of entertainment and technology. Through my LL.B and subsequent LL.M. in Intellectual Property and Technology Law, I’ve gained a solid understanding of how legal principles apply to both traditional entertainment and emerging tech.
But it wasn’t just the coursework—it was also the real-world exposure. Working with artists and tech professionals, I saw firsthand how copyright, contracts, and privacy laws are constantly tested by digital platforms and tech-driven shifts in the entertainment landscape.
The LL.M. deepened my knowledge of intellectual property, giving me a toolkit to protect the creative rights of artists, especially in a world where technology constantly challenges those boundaries.
Additionally, learning about data privacy and tech regulation has been crucial as the music industry, and entertainment at large becomes more digitized and data-driven.
My education has allowed me to blend legal expertise with a forward-thinking approach, so I can address challenges that didn’t exist just a few years ago—like data protection in music streaming or intellectual property rights in AI-generated content.
My time at the University of Lagos was incredibly influential in shaping my career, particularly in entertainment law. Lagos is the entertainment hub of Africa, and being immersed in that environment gave me first hand exposure to the vibrant, dynamic world of music, film, and culture.
The city is constantly buzzing with creativity, and it was here that I realized how much potential there was in supporting artists and protecting their work through legal frameworks.
It was at the University of Lagos that I really honed my passion for entertainment law, working with local musicians, learning about industry challenges, and navigating the legal intricacies of the booming Nigerian entertainment scene.
Studying at the University of Illinois further broadened my perspective. While Lagos gave me the hands-on, practical experience of working in one of the world’s most exciting entertainment markets, Illinois provided academic depth and global insights into intellectual property, technology law, and privacy.
The combination of both—being in the heart of Africa’s entertainment industry and then exploring legal nuances internationally—has been key to my approach. It gave me the tools to serve as a bridge between local and global markets and to advocate effectively for African artists on the international stage.
What sparked your interest in data privacy, and how do you champion stronger regulations?
My interest in data privacy began as I saw how rapidly technology was evolving, particularly in the entertainment and tech industries, and how little control individuals often had over their data.
As a legal professional working with artists and in the digital space, I became increasingly aware of how sensitive data was being handled—sometimes poorly—and how important it was for people to have control over their information.
This sparked a drive to explore the legal mechanisms that could protect consumers and creators alike.
Advocating for stronger data privacy regulations is something I’m deeply passionate about. In my work, I emphasize the importance of transparency, accountability, and security when it comes to data collection and usage.
Whether I’m working with musicians on how their data is handled by streaming platforms or pushing for better privacy safeguards in technology, I’m constantly advocating for policies that ensure fair treatment and the safeguarding of personal information.
I also engage with legislative efforts, staying updated on global privacy laws like the GDPR, to ensure that I can help shape the conversations around stronger regulations that protect individuals in our increasingly digital world.
What legal services do you offer to companies and artists in the digital space?
In the digital age, legal complexities are evolving faster than ever, and it’s crucial to help both companies and artists stay ahead of the curve.
For artists, navigating the online world involves understanding how to protect their work from piracy, managing digital rights, and leveraging platforms like streaming services in a way that’s fair and beneficial.
I guide them through contracts, licensing deals, and royalties to ensure their intellectual property is safeguarded across digital spaces. Additionally, I help them understand the importance of data privacy, especially as their personal information becomes part of larger digital ecosystems.
For companies, especially those in tech or entertainment, I focus on compliance with data privacy regulations and help them adopt best practices for AI governance.
With AI increasingly being used to create music, analyze data, and even interact with fans, it’s vital for companies to be aware of the ethical and legal implications of AI.
I assist with setting up frameworks for responsible AI use—ensuring that their technology is used transparently and with respect for intellectual property and privacy rights.
Ultimately, whether I’m working with an artist or a company, my approach is to provide clear legal guidance while also fostering an understanding of how these technologies—AI, data, and digital platforms—are reshaping the entertainment and tech industries.
This allows them to thrive in an era where innovation and regulation need to work hand-in-hand.
What impact do data privacy regulations have on the entertainment industry?
Data privacy regulations have a significant impact on the entertainment industry, especially as it becomes increasingly digital. The most obvious implication is that companies, platforms, and artists must ensure they are protecting consumer and user data.
In a world where streaming services, social media, and online purchases generate massive amounts of personal information, entertainment businesses must comply with regulations like the GDPR, CCPA, and other local data privacy laws to avoid hefty fines and reputational damage.
For artists, these regulations also mean they need to be more careful about how their fans’ data is collected and used—whether it’s through fan clubs, mailing lists, or ticket sales. Consent, transparency, and data security become crucial, especially with the rise of AI and machine learning, which can use personal data to target ads or personalize content.
Artists must be proactive about ensuring their digital platforms are compliant and that they’re not unknowingly exploiting their audience’s privacy.
Moreover, as AI tools are increasingly used to analyze data for content creation or marketing, entertainment companies must consider the ethical and legal implications of how they gather and process data.
Privacy laws now require that individuals’ data be collected transparently, used responsibly, and stored securely, which means businesses in the entertainment sector need to adopt a privacy-by-design approach when developing new technologies or marketing strategies.
In short, the entertainment industry must view data privacy not just as a legal obligation, but as an opportunity to build trust with their audience and maintain long-term success in an evolving digital landscape.
How do you safeguard artists’ digital IPs?
Protecting artists’ Intellectual Property (IP) in the digital space requires a multi-layered approach that combines legal safeguards with practical strategies.
First and foremost, I ensure that artists have clear, ironclad contracts that address the rights to their music, videos, and other creative works, particularly when distributed on digital platforms.
This includes licensing agreements that specify where and how their work can be used, and ensuring they receive proper royalties from streaming platforms and other digital outlets. I also help my clients register their works with copyright authorities to give them legal backing in case of infringement.
One of the biggest issues artists face in the digital space today is the rise of deepfakes—AI-generated videos, audio, and images that can imitate an artist’s likeness or voice.
This technology, while fascinating, is a double-edged sword. It opens up the possibility for unauthorized and unethical uses of an artist’s image, voice, or brand.
For instance, a deepfake video could make it look like an artist is endorsing something they’re not, or a voice synthesis tool could create fake music tracks in their voice, leading to issues with royalties, identity theft, and public image damage.
To combat these risks, I advise artists to use digital watermarking, blockchain technology, and AI-driven tools that can track and verify the authenticity of their content.
Additionally, I work with clients to ensure they have strong legal protections in place that specifically address the misuse of their likeness or voice, including contract clauses that prohibit unauthorized use of their images or recordings.
With the rise of deepfakes, staying vigilant, implementing robust IP protection strategies, and adapting quickly to new technologies are essential steps in keeping artists’ creative work safe in an increasingly digital world.
What’s your proudest moment in your entertainment law and music career?
My most significant accomplishment as both an entertainment lawyer and music executive has been working with some of the biggest names in the Afrobeats scene, including one of the genre’s most prominent exports from Nigeria, who is currently on my roster as a client.
Helping them navigate the complex world of music contracts, international collaborations, and brand partnerships has been both a thrilling and rewarding experience.
It’s not just about the legal work; it’s about being a trusted advisor to artists at the peak of their careers and ensuring they make smart decisions that set them up for long-term success.
In addition to this, I’ve had the privilege of working with several music legends in Nigeria—artists who’ve shaped the Afrobeats sound and influenced global music trends.
Whether it’s negotiating international record deals, securing licensing agreements, or handling intellectual property rights, every deal is a unique challenge that requires a deep understanding of both the law and the music industry. These experiences have allowed me to advocate for artists while preserving their creative freedom and ensuring they’re financially rewarded for their talent.
It’s incredibly gratifying to see how my work supports these artists’ growth and helps them make their mark on the global stage.
How do you juggle law, music, and personal responsibilities?
Balancing my legal practice, music industry work, and personal life is a juggling act, but I thrive on the energy it gives me. In my legal practice, it’s about being organized and prioritizing tasks so I can stay ahead of my clients’ needs, whether it’s negotiating contracts or advising artists.
For the music industry side of things, I make sure I carve out time for artist development, working with labels, and ensuring everything from production to promotions runs smoothly.
But there’s one more fun layer to the balance—I’m also a DJ! Sometimes I get the chance to spin tracks at events or for friends, which lets me tap into my creative side and stay connected to the music scene differently.
It’s a great way to unwind and also keep my finger on the pulse of the music I’m working with, which helps me stay fresh in both the entertainment and legal aspects of my career.
Of course, maintaining a personal life is important too. I make sure to take breaks, spend time with loved ones, and do things that recharge me so I can bring my best self to my work and passions.
It’s all about managing time well, staying disciplined, and remembering why I’m doing all of it—because I truly love what I do!
What tips do you have for aspiring entertainment lawyers/music executives?
My advice to aspiring entertainment lawyers and music executives is simple: stay passionate, stay informed, and be adaptable. The entertainment industry is constantly evolving, and the intersection of law, technology, and music is rapidly changing, so it’s crucial to keep learning.
Dive deep into both the legal and business sides of the industry. As an entertainment lawyer, you’ll need a solid understanding of contracts, intellectual property, and the unique challenges that artists face in the digital age.
For music executives, you’ll need to understand not just the creative side of things but also how to navigate partnerships, marketing, and the business side of the industry.
Also, be prepared to build strong relationships. In this industry, reputation is everything, and networking with artists, labels, producers, and other lawyers can open doors and lead to opportunities.
And don’t forget about the importance of staying flexible—whether it’s adapting to new technology, negotiating a deal, or helping an artist find their creative voice, being able to pivot and think on your feet will set you apart.
Finally, never lose sight of why you started. The industry can be tough, but it’s also incredibly rewarding when you see the impact of your work—whether it’s helping an artist protect their creative rights or supporting the growth of a new music talent.
Stay dedicated, work hard, and always be ready to embrace the new challenges that come your way!
How do you define success and legacy in your entertainment career?
Success in my career is measured by the impact I have on the artists and professionals I work with and the way I help shape the future of the entertainment industry.
For me, success isn’t just about financial rewards or high-profile deals—it’s about how I contribute to the growth and protection of talent, the expansion of the Afrobeats genre globally, and the role I play in navigating complex legal and business challenges for artists.
When an artist signs a deal that secures their future, or when a music project I’ve worked on goes global, I know I’m making a real difference.
As for my legacy, it’s about more than the work I do today—it’s about how I’ve helped pave the way for future generations in the entertainment and music industry.
I want to be remembered as someone who not only protected artists’ rights but also created a bridge between the legal, business, and creative worlds.
My goal is to leave behind a legacy of integrity, empowerment, and advocacy—whether that’s through mentoring young lawyers, developing sustainable business models for artists, or helping shape the regulatory landscape of the digital entertainment world.
Ultimately, I measure success by the positive impact I have on the people I work with, the industry I love, and the lasting change I can inspire for future creatives and legal professionals.
What’s the future vision for The Scar Production and Radio?
My long-term goal for The Scar Production and The Scar Radio is to continue expanding both the creative reach and business footprint while staying true to our core mission of empowering artists and promoting global African music.
For The Scar Production, we envision growing our artist roster to include even more internationally recognized talent, and expanding our services to support more artists across the entire entertainment spectrum—whether that’s in music, film, or digital content creation.
I also want to enhance our partnerships with global brands and labels, helping bridge the gap between local and international markets while preserving the authenticity of African culture in everything we do.
As for The Scar Radio, I’m focused on growing our listenership to even greater heights, with a goal of becoming one of the most influential platforms for Afrobeats and African music globally.
This means expanding our content offerings—think exclusive interviews, live performances, and even collaborating with artists to produce special radio events. We also want to create spaces for upcoming artists to be heard, offering a platform where they can showcase their talents to a global audience.
In the long run, I also want to make The Scar Radio a hub for cultural exchange, bringing people together to discover new sounds, learn about African music history, and engage with the artists behind the hits.
Ultimately, my goal is to leave a legacy of growth, innovation, and cultural pride for both The Scar Production and The Scar Radio, while ensuring we continue to serve the needs of our artists and our ever-growing global community of listeners.
How do you see Nigeria’s music scene evolving, and what’s your role?
I envision the future of the Nigerian music industry as even more dynamic and globally influential than it is today. With Afrobeats already making waves on the international stage, I believe we’re only scratching the surface of what Nigerian artists can achieve.
The fusion of traditional African sounds with global genres, coupled with the rise of digital platforms and streaming services, is going to open even more doors for Nigerian music.
The key to sustaining this growth will be in embracing technology—particularly AI—which will play a significant role in shaping the industry.
AI will empower Nigerian artists to create music more efficiently, personalize fan experiences, and unlock new ways to engage with global audiences. Imagine AI tools that help artists write songs, optimize their sound for specific markets, or even enhance production quality with minimal resources.
AI will also allow music companies to better analyze data on listener preferences and trends, helping artists and labels make smarter decisions when it comes to everything from marketing to tour planning.
As for my role, I see myself continuing to be a bridge between the creative and business worlds—advocating for artists’ rights, facilitating partnerships, and ensuring that the legal frameworks evolve to protect both the music and the artists.
I also plan to actively engage with AI-driven tools that can assist in music production, distribution, and even royalty management, ensuring that Nigerian artists can navigate the tech side of the industry with confidence and fairness.
By positioning myself at this intersection of law, technology, and music, I aim to help shape a future where Nigerian music not only dominates globally but thrives sustainably in a rapidly changing digital landscape
