Fabian Blu has alleged that he was introduced to drugs and faced exploitation at Marlian Records. The singer described the label as “prison-like,” accusing it of tribalism and withholding his royalties. His revelations come amid ongoing scrutiny of Marlian Music following Mohbad’s controversial death in 2023.
Former Marlian Records signee, Fabian Blu, has revealed that he was introduced to drug use during his time at the label, describing the environment as toxic and “prison-like.” Speaking in an interview with WithChude, the singer alleged that the record label, owned by Naira Marley, was filled with gangster culture, tribalism, and exploitation.
Blu, who was signed from 2020 to 2022, claimed that his creative freedom was stifled, as he was pressured to produce music that fit the label’s expectations. He also accused Marlian Records of withholding his royalties since his exit.
Reflecting on his time at the label, he said, “I never liked the Marlian Music lifestyle; it was too gangster. I wasn’t allowed to express myself creatively. My songs were controlled, and I never received my rightful earnings.”
Blu further alleged that he faced discrimination at the label due to his religious beliefs. “Because I wasn’t a Muslim, I was mistreated,” he said.
Marlian Records has faced increased scrutiny following the controversial death of Mohbad, another former signee, in 2023. The label has been accused of mistreating artists, prompting calls for investigations into its operations.
Blu’s revelations have sparked fresh concerns about the exploitation of young artists in the Nigerian music industry, adding to the ongoing debate about the need for better contractual agreements and artist welfare in record labels.
