In a recent social media outburst, Muyiwa Awoniyi, the manager of critically acclaimed singer Tems, called out artists who are fixated on topping the Apple Music Nigeria chart. Awoniyi argued that such artists are out of touch with reality, emphasizing that the Afrobeats music scene has gone global.
Taking to his Twitter account on Monday, Awoniyi expressed his exasperation with this obsession, stating, “Imagining caring about Apple Music NG in 2023. Are you a baby? Or you don’t know the scene is global now?”
When questioned by a fan about his criticism of the Apple Music Nigeria chart, Awoniyi provided a succinct explanation. He emphasized that the relevance of a chart is determined by the number of users of the app within the country. He further highlighted the ignorance of artists who fail to recognize how many people in Nigeria actually have Apple Music.
It is worth noting that there have been speculations about certain artists manipulating their chart positions on Apple Music Nigeria through the use of a controversial method known as “streaming farm.” This practice involves artificially boosting streaming numbers, creating an illusion of popularity and influencing chart rankings.
While the Apple Music Nigeria chart has been a coveted accolade within the music industry, Awoniyi’s criticism raises questions about its true significance in a rapidly evolving global music landscape. As Afrobeats continues to gain traction internationally, an artist’s focus should shift towards broader recognition and impact rather than solely fixating on chart success within a single country.
As the music industry becomes increasingly interconnected thanks to technological advancements and the widespread influence of streaming platforms, it is crucial for artists to broaden their perspective and recognize the bigger picture. Rather than placing undue emphasis on chart positions, artists should strive for authentic creativity, innovation, and connection with their audience both at home and abroad.
