During one of the empowering AMPD Studios by Old Mutual Masterclasses we see legendary Durban-based DJ Tira, real name Mthokozisi Khathi opening up about the very real dangers of contracts and not being business minded when signing.
He also bears testament to the importance of investing not only in yourself but your finances too.
In a passionate and honest confession about the dangers of contracts, DJ Tira made particular reference to a certain contract dispute that he has been in for almost a decade. In this insightful Masterclass, he shared how his hindsight and learned wisdom made him realise that this “contractual battle” he referred to, was what he believes to be solely based on a simple lack of understanding and a blind faith in what was put in a contract and signed. This can have long-term consequences and can affect your future in the industry.
DJ Tira advises artists on how important having a contract is and the critical importance of actually understanding the contract. It is essential as an aspiring artist who wants to amplify their future, that they must seek consultation with an expert that understands a contract.
His advice to artists is to:
- Find someone who can read it and help you understand what the contract says.
- Know what you are signing.
- Know your options, ensure you know how you can get out of the contract if you need to.
- Know what the contract is saying that you need to deliver.
“It’s about making money at the end of the day and if you have not understood the details of the contract you are putting yourself in a potentially dangerous position for your future. When artists see a contract, they see themselves as stars and they just put ink on the paper without understanding the contract,” says DJ Tira
Talking about how the excitement of potential fame can overtake your decision process, Tira shares how he understands that feeling of hearing your song on the radio and how that feeling never gets old. However exciting it is you need to prepare yourself because at the end of the day you need to make money to sustain yourself. You want to make sure, that your music will keep on generating money and be sure that even before your song goes on radio that you are confident that you will get the cheque.
To echo the importance of the business of the music business and signing contracts, he concluded by reminding artists of the other side of the business in the music industry and that is about the money. It is critical not only to invest in yourself and in your music and the equipment but you also need to invest the money you make to sure your future prospects grow. Invest your money wisely he said.
“Save that money to make you better in what you are doing, and to benefit the next generation. I’m all about empowerment and these are my words of advice to you”
To see more watch the AMPD Studios Live by Old Mutual DJ Tira Masterclass [HERE].
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