Nigerian musician Portable has sparked controversy by accusing prominent Afrobeats artists Wizkid, Davido, Olamide, and Burna Boy of hindering the growth of other musicians in the industry. According to Portable, these four artists have dominated the Nigerian music scene for over a decade, limiting opportunities for emerging talent to rise to prominence.
In a video statement shared on his social media platform, Portable expressed concerns about the perceived stranglehold these artists have on the industry. He alleged that they often misrepresent the value of their possessions, such as jewelry, which can create unrealistic expectations and pressure on younger artists. Portable claimed that these established artists may claim to have purchased expensive items for inflated prices when, in reality, they may have received them for free.
The singer emphasized the need for his colleagues to be more considerate of up-and-coming musicians, who may feel pressured to keep up with the perceived lavish lifestyles of their more established peers. Portable urged the quartet to be more transparent and honest about their wealth, rather than potentially misleading their fans and younger artists.
Portable’s comments have highlighted the challenges faced by emerging artists in the Nigerian music industry, where a small group of established stars have maintained a strong presence for many years. The issue of wealth disparity and the pressure to conform to certain standards of success can be daunting for new artists trying to break into the scene.
The Nigerian music industry has experienced significant growth in recent years, with Afrobeats gaining international recognition and acclaim. However, Portable’s accusations have sparked a conversation about the need for greater support and opportunities for emerging talent, as well as the importance of authenticity and transparency among established artists.
As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the accused artists will respond to Portable’s allegations and whether the industry will take steps to address the concerns raised. Portable has vowed to continue speaking out on the issue, emphasizing the need for change and greater support for emerging artists in the Nigerian music industry.
