Busy Signal has been named global ambassador for Tape Deck, a new music streaming platform built around direct sales to fans and an 80/20 revenue split in the artist’s favor.
The dancehall star used the platform’s launch to deliver a sharp warning about exploitation in the music business, and to reveal a slate of new music that includes an exclusive EP, an album titled Prevail and a collaboration with Damian Marley.
The deejay described the appointment as another milestone in a long journey. “I’m so thankful. I’m so honored,” he said, adding that each blessing reminds him of where he came from and what he has been through.
Tape Deck does not run on a subscription model. Fans pay for the music they choose, and artists keep the larger share of the revenue. “It’s not a subscribe thing. You pay as you go. It’s so easy. It’s direct to the fans,” Busy Signal said.
As an independent act, he sees the platform as a natural fit. It’s a great platform for me as an independent artist,” he explained.
He said he did not take the role lightly. Before signing on, he had lawyers review the agreement for him, with particular attention to his rights to his intellectual property.
The terms went back and forth, but in the end everything he needed was met. I’ve been through the whole contract,” he said, encouraging other artists to take a close look.
Ownership is a point of pride for the artist, who produces much of his own music. “My masters is not owned by no company out there,” he said.
The launch, held at Tuff Gang, became a platform for one of Busy Signal’s most pointed statements on the industry. He took aim at so-called producers, managers and labels who take advantage of talent.
“People exploit artists, you know, lots of parts of the world,” he said, noting that Jamaica in particular has long suffered from the problem.
He admitted that he too entered the business without much knowledge of how it worked. “Back then I didn’t know nothing about the business part of music,” he recalled. He now makes a point of learning more every day, determined not to repeat the mistakes he has watched others make.
He described those who profit from artists’ work without permission as predators who move from one act to the next. “Who is going to break the chains?” he asked.
For Busy Signal, Tape Deck’s transparency speaks directly to musicians who have been left out of the money their work generates, including those who “probably never see a publishing check probably never see no royalty statement,” he said.
He believes the platform aligns with what Bob Marley wanted for musicians. “According to your works, you shall get paid,” he added.
He urged artists who are not bound by restrictive contracts to sign up, while also encouraging them to seek advice and look out for their own best interests.
The artist also has plenty of music on the way. An EP titled Songs from My Tape Deck will be available exclusively on the platform for three months.
He also plans a freestyle mixtape built on hip-hop and R&B beats, alongside an official album called Prevail. “Not a date as yet, but it’s coming very soon,” he said of the album.
At the launch, he previewed two unreleased tracks, a solo record and a new collaboration with Damian Marley. “I previewed a collab earlier with me and Damian Marley,” he said.
He said his focus now is on quality over quantity, crafting concepts with worldwide appeal. Not every idea lands the first time, he acknowledged, but that has never stopped him. “Consistency is key and we keep going,” he said.
