Losing music catalogue taught me to protect my brand— Justice Obaro

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Singer, songwriter, producer and sound engineer, Justice Obaro, has said setbacks in his music career taught him the importance of protecting his artistic identity and understanding the business side of the industry.

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Obaro, who began his career under the name “Obas/Obass” before rebuilding his brand under his real name following a setback involving his music catalogue and YouTube channel, said the experience taught him to conduct thorough research before making professional decisions.

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Speaking in an interview with Saturday Beats, he said, “One of the biggest lessons I have learnt from setbacks in my career is the importance of doing proper research before making any professional decision, no matter how small it may seem. Sometimes, one small detail that is overlooked can have serious consequences for an entire career.

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“I was fortunate enough to resolve one of the major setbacks I experienced, but it taught me to be more careful and informed about the business side of music. I also learnt the importance of protecting my artistic identity.

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“If an artist intends to pursue music seriously and professionally, registering and protecting their stage name or brand is extremely important. Where possible, artists should consider trademarking their name, or alternatively choose a distinctive and truly unique professional name from the beginning.”

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Obaro, who gained early attention with his debut song, ‘Africa’, in 2006, also recalled how the success of the song exposed him to the importance of professional management.

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Obaro also explained why he taught himself music production and sound engineering, noting that the skills gave him greater control over his creative vision.

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He said, “I decided to learn music production and sound engineering because I wanted greater control over my artistic vision.

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“There were times when producers and sound engineers were not able to create the sound I imagined or felt was right for my music. Some of the producers who could deliver the quality and style I wanted were also beyond what I could afford at the time, while some of the more affordable options did not produce the kind of music I envisioned.”

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Reflecting on his upbringing in Warri, Delta State, Obaro said his hometown did not directly shape his sound because he was more focused on studying successful artistes from around the world.

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Obaro also credited his participation in The Voice Nigeria Season One and West Africa Project Fame Season Nine, both in 2016, with helping to shape his development as a performer and music entrepreneur.

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He made it to the semi-finals of The Voice Nigeria and the Top 12 of West Africa Project Fame.

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He said, “Through these competitions, I gained recognition across three countries and attracted interest from potential record labels.

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“However, rather than immediately accepting every opportunity presented to me, I made the decision to return to Cape Town, South Africa, where I saw an opportunity to build something of my own.

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“I returned with the intention of establishing a record label with investors who had shown interest in my music and creative abilities. This was an important stage in my development because it represented a shift from simply pursuing opportunities as an artist to thinking more seriously about building a sustainable music business.”

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Speaking about the next chapter of his career, Obaro said losing both parents in 2026 forced him to reassess his priorities and purpose.

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He said, “My journey has not been easy, and I have experienced significant personal and professional challenges. Losing my parents in 2026 created an extremely difficult chapter in my life. It made me reassess my priorities, my purpose and the direction of my career.

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“Rather than allowing these experiences to destroy my ambition, they pushed me to reinvent myself.

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“My goal now is to use everything I have learnt to take my music to a higher international level, build meaningful professional relationships and establish myself as an artiste and creative professional capable of making a significant contribution to the music industry.”

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