In a latest TikTok video, singer and songwriter Muni Lengthy opened up about her experiences with Atlantic Data, alleging manipulation surrounding her contributions to the hit track “Timber” by Pitbull and Kesha. This revelation has sparked conversations about artist rights and the music trade’s therapy of Black creators.
The backstory of ‘Timber’
Launched in 2013, “Timber” grew to become a chart-topping success, however Muni Lengthy’s involvement within the track’s creation has remained largely unrecognized. Lengthy co-wrote the monitor’s hook, post-chorus and bridge alongside Breyan Isaacs. Initially, Atlantic Data expressed enthusiasm for the track, even contemplating giving it to rapper Flo Rida earlier than in the end deciding on Pitbull because the featured artist.
Unexpected adjustments and re-recordings
As the discharge date approached, Lengthy was contacted by Atlantic Data with an surprising request. The label requested her to come back into the studio to re-record some vocals. In accordance with Lengthy, the studio knowledgeable her that the featured artist, broadly believed to be Kesha, was struggling to hit the excessive notes required for the track. Consequently, they needed Lengthy to regulate her vocals to match Kesha’s vary.
Muni Lengthy reveals Atlantic Data gave Pitbull “Timber” with out her permission and made her re-do the refrain as a result of Kesha wasn’t in a position to hit the best notice within the track.
Lengthy expressed her frustration, noting that the adjustments made to her authentic work had been important. When she inquired in regards to the alterations, the label defined that they had been needed to make sure a seamless mix with Kesha’s vocals. This case raises questions in regards to the inventive management artists have over their work and the extent to which file labels can dictate adjustments.
Compensation points
Including to her grievances, Lengthy claimed that she was by no means compensated for the re-recording periods. This lack of fee is a typical subject confronted by many songwriters and artists, significantly these from marginalized backgrounds. Moreover, Lengthy revealed that Kesha’s mom tried to safe a 2 % publishing stake in “Timber,” regardless of Kesha not contributing any lyrics to the track. This incident highlights the complexities of music publishing and the often-overlooked contributions of Black artists.
A stand towards exploitation
Lately, Muni Lengthy made headlines once more by posting an Instagram video the place she declared her refusal to put in writing songs for “non-melanated artists” from Atlantic Data. This daring assertion displays her dedication to advocating for Black artists and guaranteeing that their contributions are acknowledged and revered throughout the trade.
The broader implications
Muni Lengthy’s experiences with Atlantic Data aren’t remoted incidents however quite half of a bigger narrative in regards to the exploitation of Black artists within the music trade. Many artists have shared related tales of being undervalued and manipulated by file labels, which regularly prioritize revenue over the inventive rights of the people who contribute to their success.
As conversations about fairness and illustration within the music trade proceed to develop, Lengthy’s revelations function an important reminder of the significance of supporting Black artists and advocating for honest therapy. It’s important for followers and trade professionals alike to acknowledge the contributions of songwriters and be certain that they obtain the credit score and compensation they deserve.
Muni Lengthy’s allegations towards Atlantic Data shine a light-weight on the continuing struggles confronted by Black artists within the music trade. By sharing her story, she not solely empowers herself but in addition paves the best way for future generations of artists to face up for his or her rights. Because the trade evolves, it’s essential to foster an setting the place creativity is widely known, and artists are handled with the respect they deserve.