Veteran Nigerian musician Baba Fryo has expressed concern over the current state of the music industry, claiming that securing a hit song has become increasingly difficult. In a recent episode of the I Say What I Say podcast, the veteran singer suggested that many artists are resorting to controversial stunts to gain attention and promote their music.
Fryo pointed to the recent controversy surrounding Wizkid’s comparison of himself to the late Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti as an example of such tactics. He alleged that the statement was a deliberate move to generate buzz for Wizkid’s joint EP with Asake, titled ‘Real.’
“It takes a lot to get a mega hit now. Some go even do some kind stunt. Shey you dey see the one with ‘Wizkid pass Fela’; all these ones na stunt,” Fryo stated. He explained that during his era, achieving a hit song was more straightforward, relying on the quality of music and genuine public acceptance with minimal promotion.
The veteran musician attributed the current challenges to various industry players, including DJs, music executives, and artists themselves. He alleged that some DJs and music executives sabotage quality music in favor of trending content, contributing to the difficulties faced by artists in securing hits.
Fryo urged Nigerian artists and music executives to prioritize quality music over trends and social media virality. He emphasized the need to return to a focus on musical excellence and authentic public reception rather than relying on controversial tactics for promotion.
The veteran singer’s comments highlight the evolving nature of the music industry, where the path to success has become increasingly complex and competitive. His observations underscore the challenges faced by artists in navigating the current landscape, where viral moments and social media presence often play a significant role in determining a song’s success.
As the Nigerian music industry continues to grow and evolve, Fryo’s insights serve as a reminder of the importance of maintaining artistic integrity and focusing on quality content. His call for a return to prioritizing musical excellence over viral stunts resonates with those who value the craft of music-making and the authentic connection between artists and their audience.
The debate sparked by Fryo’s comments is likely to continue as the industry grapples with the changing dynamics of music promotion and consumption in the digital age. As artists and industry professionals seek to adapt to these changes, the balance between artistic integrity and commercial success remains a central concern in the Nigerian music scene.
