A Comparative Look at two approaches to business. Vybz Kartel’s Disengagement Versus Glen Washington’s Sustained Connections.
I would like to contrast two distinct circumstances in the music industry that have recently occurred. Now the music business is not something I know about and the last time I promoted an event I was in school raising money for the school steelband. What I do know about however is relationships.
Vybz Kartel’s highly anticipated performance in Trinidad was abruptly cancelled just hours before showtime. Reports indicate that despite a substantial portion of his agreed-upon fee being paid, the final balance could not be disbursed. The promoter, claimed they only learned of Kartel’s withdrawal via media reports, expressing disappointment after accommodating his team’s requests. Kartel’s team, however, maintained that the promoter had repeatedly missed deadlines, leading to a breach of contract. This situation not only left fans disappointed but also sparked an investigation by Trinidad’s Finance Minister into the foreign exchange used for artist payments, underscoring the ripple effects of such disputes.
On the other hand, Reggae singer Glen Washington recently went above and beyond to protect his brand and fans. After a booking agent disappeared, jeopardizing his UK and Germany tour dates, Washington personally paid over US$8,000for his team’s flights to ensure a UK show could still happen.
He explained that this was a “small price to pay” to keep his loyal fans happy and to safeguard his reputation and that of UK promoter Cecil Reuben, who would have faced significant losses. His manager, Jackie Whyte-Washington, emphasized Glen’s integrity, stating they couldn’t risk another “no-show” for his dedicated UK audience. So, he prioritisedrelationships with his fans, as well as relationships with the promoter and those between the promoter and others.
I am not saying that any one approach is better than the other but I would like to think we would be the ones to put relationships first.
Relationship is MORE…
