Structural disparity in Nigerian music sector criticized
Popular disc jockey and music producer Imohiosen Patrick, widely recognized as DJ Neptune, has raised a serious alarm regarding what he describes as a pervasive and troubling trend within the Nigerian music industry: the systemic sidelining of veteran artistes and creatives. The award-winning DJ expressed deep concern that established musicians and producers are quickly pushed aside once they achieve certain milestones, creating an unsustainable and unforgiving environment for long-term careers.
In a recent interview, DJ Neptune pinpointed the problem as a fundamental “structural issue” plaguing the local industry model. He noted that the environment in Nigeria sharply contrasts with global music scenes, particularly in the West, where veteran artistes and established figures—referred to as OGs (Original Gangsters)—maintain relevance and continue to thrive alongside emerging talent.
“In Nigeria, once you reach a certain level, they push you aside like, ‘Oya go to that corner, we’re done with you.’ It’s a structural problem,” he stated, emphasizing the lack of institutional support for career longevity. “Abroad, the OGs are still as relevant as the newbies. We need to address the structural issues,” he added, issuing a clear call for industry stakeholders to create a more equitable and enduring ecosystem that values experience.
The impact of a throwaway culture on pioneers
The structural problem highlighted by DJ Neptune affects more than just pride; it has significant professional and financial implications for the pioneers who built the foundation for today’s global Afrobeats phenomenon. Nigeria’s music scene, currently enjoying unprecedented international acclaim and market value, owes a profound debt to the veterans who fused disparate African sounds with global influences to create the modern sound.
However, as the genre continues its rapid evolution, a culture that relentlessly chases the “next big thing” often leaves little space for older artistes. This results in pioneers struggling for relevance, airplay, and lucrative endorsement deals. Unlike Western markets where timeless classic acts can tour extensively, command high fees, and are celebrated in mainstream media, many Nigerian veterans find their visibility diminishing rapidly after their peak. This lack of respect for legacy and long-term career planning creates a fragile foundation for the industry, suggesting that today’s stars face the same fate tomorrow. The sidelining of veterans potentially discourages established professionals from passing down crucial institutional knowledge, mentorship, and experience necessary to sustain the industry’s growth trajectory and avoid repeating past errors.
The imperative for personal and sonic reinvention
When questioned on how he himself has managed to sustain a highly successful career across various eras of Nigerian music, DJ Neptune pointed to the necessity of constant self-evaluation and adaptation. He acknowledged that while he does not intend to remain a frontline DJ perpetually and will know when to step away, remaining relevant in a fast-paced environment demands a proactive strategy.
“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,” he explained. This philosophy of continuous reinvention is essential for veterans facing the structural bias. For a creative in the Nigerian music space, reinvention goes beyond simple changes in style. It involves strategically collaborating with current chart-toppers, embracing new digital distribution and social media platforms, experimenting with contemporary sounds, and often pivoting into roles as producers, label executives, or brand managers. Neptune’s successful transition into producing chart-topping collaborations demonstrates a model for how seasoned professionals can evolve their roles while still making a crucial impact on the industry.
Call for a sustainable industry legacy model
DJ Neptune’s critique ultimately serves as a powerful call to action for the Nigerian music industry to develop a sustainable legacy model. The continuous growth of Afrobeats requires not just the energy of new talent but the stability and wisdom provided by experienced hands. Industry stakeholders, including record labels, major event promoters, media platforms, and corporate sponsors, must collaboratively implement structures that formally protect and integrate veteran creatives.
This could involve establishing mentorship programs, creating dedicated platforms for showcasing classic material, and ensuring that veteran artistes receive fair financial residuals and royalties for their foundational work. By correcting this structural imbalance, the Nigerian music industry can move towards a maturity that celebrates its history while championing its future, ensuring that long-term contributors are honored and that the next generation of stars is not destined to become tomorrow’s overlooked veteran. The industry’s future strength depends on whether it can manage to learn from, and not discard, its past heroes.
