Nigerian Music Industry Faces Criticism for Sidelining Veterans
DJ Neptune, a prominent disc jockey and producer, has voiced concerns over the trend of marginalizing veteran artists in the Nigerian music industry. According to him, creatives are often pushed aside once they reach a certain level of success. This phenomenon, which he describes as a structural problem, is in contrast to the Western music industry, where veteran artists are allowed to coexist and thrive alongside newcomers.
In a recent interview with Hip TV, DJ Neptune noted that the Nigerian music industry has a tendency to discard veteran artists, saying, “In Nigeria, once you reach a certain level, they push you aside… It’s a structural problem. Abroad, the OGs are still as relevant as the newbies.” He emphasized the need to address these structural issues to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for artists of all levels.
DJ Neptune, who has managed to maintain his relevance in the industry over the years, attributed his success to his ability to reinvent himself. He stated, “Although I don’t plan to do this all my life… when it’s time to take a bow, I will. But what I have just done over the years is that I know when it’s time to re-invent. That’s life. Things are changing, so you need to move with the time.”
The Nigerian music industry has experienced significant growth in recent years, with many new artists emerging and gaining international recognition. However, the issue of sidelining veteran artists raises concerns about the industry’s ability to support and nurture its talent. By addressing these structural problems, the industry can work towards creating a more sustainable and inclusive environment for artists of all levels, allowing them to thrive and contribute to the industry’s continued growth and success.
