Power Up has paid tribute to award-winning music lawyer and legal & business affairs manager Abi Lufadeju, who has died aged 35.
Abi Lufadeju was part of the Year 4 cohort of Power Up, the long-term initiative which supports Black music creators and industry professionals and executives.
She previously worked as in-house counsel across companies including Ninja Tune, Hospital Records, Van Straten, Russells and Briffa.
Through her own practice, she also represented artists such as Headie One, alongside a number of behind-the-scenes writers and producers working with artists including Burna Boy and others. She negotiated deals for Headie One and other artists.
In a tribute posted on Instagram, Power Up said: '”The Power Up family is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Abi Lufadeju. An award-winning music lawyer and legal & business affairs manager, Abi’s passion for empowering talented artists and creatives shone through.
“As an artist herself, she brought a unique perspective to her profession, working with firms such as Briffa, Russells and Van Straten, with independent labels such as Hospital Records and Ninja Tunes, and founding and expanding her own company, AJL Legal. Clients including Headie One and behind-the-scenes writers and producers who collaborate with Afrofusion giants such as Burna Boy benefited from Abi’s in-depth knowledge and dedication to building bridges and nurturing careers.”
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The statement continued: “She brought that expertise and love to our network when joining our Year 4 cohort, and is a much loved figure in the Power Up family, the Black music community and the wider music industry.
“On what would have been her 35th birthday, we all send heartfelt condolences to her family and loved ones at this sad time. Rest in eternal peace Abisola x.”
Abi Lufadeju graduated with a law degree in 2012, followed by completing the legal practice course and a Master’s degree in 2014, qualifying as a Solicitor in 2016.
Her talent and dedication were recognised in 2017 when she won the Lawyer (Rising Star) Of The Year (Under 30) Award at the Young Music Boss Awards.
As the youngest associate lecturer at Buckinghamshire University, she educated Music Business degree students on music industry contracts and intellectual property law.
