In recently released footage, Tanzanian artist Harmonize addressed a range of emotions surrounding his relationship with Ibraah, including sadness, support, and a plea for understanding.
Harmonize revealed that Ibraah reached out to him seeking permission to officially leave the label and begin his journey as an independent artist. He shared, “First of all, I want to thank my younger brother. He wrote to me asking for my approval to leave the label so that he could start his career as an independent artist.”
Harmonize extended his best wishes to Ibraah, emphasizing their enduring connection despite the official termination of their contract. He added, “I directly told him, ‘I wish you all the best. I will always support you as usual.’”
Social media erupted with claims that Harmonize requested 1 billion Tanzanian shillings (roughly 531 million Rwandan Francs) from Ibraah to release his music rights. Harmonize unequivocally denied the accusations.
He clarified, “I never asked for that money. I think there was either a misunderstanding or the issue was misrepresented. The contract we signed four years ago clearly outlined how matters related to intellectual property rights should be handled.”
The artist further explained that Ibraah's acquisition of the rights to his works was contingent on fulfilling financial obligations stipulated in their agreement.
Harmonize emphasized the dual nature of the music industry as both an emotional and commercial endeavor, stating that all efforts within the label are geared toward advancing artists' careers.
He said, “Even though we all want to survive, music is a business. We do everything possible to keep things moving.”
Konde Gang, under Harmonize’s leadership, has supported artists like Country Boy and Killy in gaining full intellectual property rights after fulfilling their contractual commitments.
Despite varied opinions across social media platforms, Harmonize urged event organizers to collaborate with Ibraah, underscoring his need to support his family now that he is an independent artist.
He remarked, “He is an independent artist from now on. Event organizers, if you have an event, call him so he can support his family.”
As for their contract dispute filed with BASATA (Tanzania’s National Arts Council), Harmonize revealed that he entrusted his label's management to handle the issue due to personal obligations.
He explained, “I received a call and instructed my management to follow up on the matter because I didn’t have time to visit BASATA myself.”
In his closing remarks, Harmonize sought forgiveness in a spiritual context, stressing that the disagreement between him and Ibraah was not meant to be a public controversy but an issue to be resolved amicably.
Despite Ibraah's departure from Konde Gang, Harmonize expressed no ill will and wished him success. This sentiment highlights the importance of respect and professionalism in the music industry.
Harmonize emphasized that he never demanded over 531 million Rwandan Francs from Ibraah for his departure but noted that certain contractual conditions had to be met for their separation to be finalized.