How Losing My Music Made Me Protect My Brand, Justice Obaro

Singer, songwriter, producer, and sound engineer, Justice Obaro, shared how challenges in his music career taught him to protect his artistic identity and understand the business side of the industry.

Obaro started his career under the name "Obas/Obass" but changed to his real name after facing issues with his music catalogue and YouTube channel. He emphasized that this experience taught him to do thorough research before making professional choices.

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."

"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."

Obaro stressed that artists serious about their careers should register and protect their stage name or brand. He suggested that artists consider trademarking their name or choose a unique professional name from the start.

He first gained attention with his debut song, ‘Africa’, in 2006. The success of the song showed him the need for professional management.

Obaro explained why he taught himself music production and sound engineering. He felt these skills gave him more control over his creative vision.

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

Looking back at his upbringing in Warri, Delta State, Obaro said his hometown did not shape his sound directly. He focused more on studying successful artists from around the world.

He also credited his time on The Voice Nigeria Season One and West Africa Project Fame Season Nine in 2016 for shaping him as a performer and music entrepreneur. Obaro reached the semi-finals of The Voice Nigeria and the Top 12 of West Africa Project Fame.

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

"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."

"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."

As he looks ahead in his career, Obaro reflected on the impact of losing both parents in 2026. This loss led him to rethink his priorities and purpose.

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."

"Rather than allowing these experiences to destroy my ambition, they pushed me to reinvent myself. 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 artist and creative professional capable of making a significant contribution to the music industry."