Asake under fire as ex-strategist Tunde Phoenix laments $4M loss

By Tosin Brown

London-based music promoter Tunde Babalola, also known as Tunde Phoenix, has publicly criticized his former client, Asake, accusing him of turning down lucrative performance deals worth over $4 million in 2024.

In a lengthy Instagram post, Tunde, who previously worked as Asake’s strategist, alleged that the singer declined multiple high-paying show offers, supposedly due to his reluctance to share earnings with his team.

Among the rejected offers, he claimed, was a national tour featuring global stars, with individual show payments nearing $1 million.

“Africa Tour Offers: Four shows—$3 million, plus private jet, production, logistics, and accommodation for the entire team,” Tunde wrote. “But because of greed and not wanting to share earnings, you said, ‘cancel the tour.’”

He further detailed a Dubai concert offer, which he said included $400,000 for a 20-minute set, along with flights, accommodation, and transport, yet was turned down.

Tunde also mentioned lucrative end-of-year performance invitations from high-profile organizations such as Oando and the Tony Elumelu Foundation, which were allegedly rejected.

According to him, despite being in a crucial phase of his career, Asake performed only 11 shows throughout 2024. “As an artist aiming for mega stardom in your ‘I’m here to stay’ year, this is pathetic,” he concluded.

Asake has yet to respond to the allegations.