by Former Cradle of Filth member Marek ‘Ashok’ Šmerda has issued advice to fellow musicians about understanding the business side of music. This follows his departure from the band after financial disputes with Dani Filth. His comments were shared in a post on Instagram.
Šmerda’s statement emphasized the importance of musicians educating themselves about legal and business aspects of the music industry. He urged them not to focus solely on creative pursuits.
“Got this book [‘All You Need to Know About the Music Business] few days ago and the other one couple of months ago and man, what a reading! I now wish I have spent more time with such studies and researches rather than invest most of my energy into endless practicing instrument and sleepless nights full of writing actual music for the projects who never appreciated it properly and did not understand (or perhaps did not want me to understand) how it should be compensated from legal/business perspective,” he said.
The musician continued with a direct message to other artists in the industry.
“It is no secret most musicians are focused solely on art and creativity but if there is message I wish to give other musicians, especially young and at career beginning, it is that you should familiarize yourself with rights and legal perspectives on all things in this business,” he continued.
Šmerda’s departure from Cradle of Filth was marked by significant controversy and public disputes. These extended beyond simple creative differences.
MetalSucks reported that Šmerda publicly announced he would leave the band after their current Latin American tour. He cited “relatively low pay,” high stress, and feeling that the band did not prioritize its members. He described enduring “years of unprofessional behavior” from management and the band’s leadership as key factors in his decision.
The situation became more complex when Šmerda’s wife and former Cradle of Filth keyboardist and vocalist Zoe Marie Federoff also left the band abruptly. Chaoszine revealed that Federoff exposed management as being “dishonest” and “manipulative.” She alleged attempts to withhold money earned by band members. She accused Dani Filth of fostering a “threatening and abusive” environment exploiting the members with very low wages.
“I have endured years of unprofessional behavior from the band’s management and leadership, which has created a high-stress environment that does not prioritize the well-being of its members,” Šmerda stated in his departure announcement.
Despite the turmoil surrounding these departures, The PRP confirmed that Cradle of Filth vowed to continue their South American tour with a temporary replacement guitarist. The band stated they were “in a state of shock” but rejected accusations towards management. They underscored their intent to move forward without cancellation of shows.
