Kean Cipriano has spoken up about the controversy surrounding O/C Records and singer-songwriter MRLD, firmly maintaining that he and his wife, Chynna Ortaleza, were fair to the artists under their label.
In his interview with Boy Abunda on Fast Talk with Boy Abunda on August 20, Kean denied allegations that they took money that did not belong to them. “We didn’t take anything that we weren’t supposed to take,” he said, stressing that he and Chynna have a clear conscience when it comes to the company’s dealings.
Kean and Chynna founded O/C Records in 2018, with the company operating as a record label, publishing house, and talent management agency. Among its former artists are Arthur Nery and MRLD. The label became the subject of controversy in March 2026 after MRLD claimed that she received only five percent of the royalties from her compositions. She eventually left O/C Records.
On the royalty issue, Kean explained that earnings in the music industry involve more than just one percentage. “It’s not that simple,” he said, noting that artists can earn through original sound recordings, publishing, shows, endorsements, and other areas. He added that every artist has their own “leverage” when it comes to negotiating contracts and building their careers.
Kean also admitted that the accusations against him and Chynna affected him. “It hurts because I’m an artist myself,” he said. He explained that they created O/C Records partly because, as artists themselves, they wanted to give other musicians creative freedom while helping them develop professionally.
As for the controversy, Kean said he would rather address concerns face-to-face than engage in social media drama. “If there’s a problem, concerns, negotiations, anything, come to the office and let’s talk,” he said. He also acknowledged having tension with former O/C Records artist Arthur Nery, saying they did not see eye to eye and have not seen each other for some time. Despite this, Kean said he wishes Arthur well.
