Singer Kazhanna Accuses Jerry Heil's Label of 'Slave Contract,' Terminates Deal.

Dispute Erupts Between Kazhanna and NOVA MUSIC

According to TSN.ua: Ukrainian singer Kazhanna has severed ties with the NOVA MUSIC label, alleging financial mismanagement and psychological pressure from the company owned by fellow artist Jerry Heil. Kazhanna publicly denounced the arrangement as a 'slave contract,' citing major concerns over its financial terms and expressing frustration that the label refused to adopt a 50/50 profit-sharing model. This public airing of grievances has escalated a private conflict into a major industry talking point.

NOVA MUSIC has denied the accusations, stating the project was not profitable and that they consistently supported the artist. In her response, Jerry Heil asserted that the label never restricted Kazhanna's creative freedom and pointed to potential technical delays in royalty payments.

“You know that there can be technical delays with payments, and at the same time the label always advanced you money when you asked,” she noted.

Broader Implications for the Music Industry

The conflict intensified after Kazhanna released a parody video criticizing her working conditions. She questioned the label's financial transparency, stating,

“All the accounting is with the label. They promised to show it, but so far that hasn't happened.”

“Why then do I conclude that the label's investments, which I was supposed to repay under the contract, have been recouped and I can leave?”

Kazhanna emphasized that her goal is not to attack Jerry Heil personally—especially ahead of a national selection—but to challenge outdated practices in Ukraine's music business. This case highlights ongoing, widespread issues in the industry concerning fair contracts and financial accountability. Public disputes like this often force a reevaluation of standard practices, potentially acting as a catalyst for reform in how artists and labels manage their relationships.

The fallout from this disagreement has sparked significant discussion among fans and industry professionals. It underscores a persistent pattern in Ukrainian show business where contract terms and financial transparency are frequent sources of contention, suggesting a need for systemic change.