Tablo of the legendary hip-hop trio Epik High opened up about lingering issues from his group’s early days in the music business. During a recent episode of his podcast “Hey Tablo,” the artist revisited a 2003 contract from his debut era, expressing deep disappointment over what he described as withheld earnings from one of the group’s breakthrough tracks.
Tablo specifically highlighted the song “Fly,” a fan-favorite released in 2005 that helped cement Epik High’s reputation for thoughtful, introspective hip-hop. According to the rapper, despite the track’s success and continued popularity including influencing younger artists like BTS’ RM he claims he and his members received no Korean won in royalties due to the terms of that early exclusive contract.
“I made ‘Fly,’ but I didn’t get a single penny from it because of this contract,” Tablo shared emotionally, holding up the old document. His comments shed light on the often opaque royalty structures that many artists, particularly in the early 2000s, navigated when entering the industry. Epik High originally debuted under an agency arrangement before later joining YG Entertainment in 2011 for several years, eventually parting ways amicably in 2018 to pursue greater independence.
Photo | From The Chosun Daily
The revelation comes at a time when K-pop artists are increasingly advocating for transparency in contracts and fair compensation. Tablo’s frustration echoes broader conversations about artist rights, with many veterans speaking out about past deals that heavily favored management companies.
While Epik High has since thrived with their own label and international presence, this glimpse into their past underscores the challenges even successful acts have faced.
Fans flooded social media with support, praising Tablo’s authenticity and calling for better protections for creators. Industry observers note that such stories highlight the evolution of the Korean music scene, where newer generations benefit from reformed practices and stronger legal awareness.
As Epik High continues to produce acclaimed music, Tablo’s story serves as a reminder of the human cost behind the hits and the ongoing push for equity in entertainment.
