Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Adekunle Gold has raised an important issue regarding the state of the Nigerian music industry, expressing deep concern over its leadership and the negative impact it is having on the growth and recognition of true talent.

In a recent post on his X (formerly Twitter) handle, Adekunle Gold voiced his frustrations, claiming that the music industry is being led by the wrong individuals—those with no true understanding or respect for the craft. The singer pointed out that artists, producers, and other creatives are being overshadowed by people who are not in tune with the music industry.

“People who have no business leading music conversations are now controlling and destroying the industry,” Adekunle Gold wrote.
“Artists, producers, and real contributors are being overshadowed by people who don’t create, don’t understand, and don’t respect the craft.”

The artist continued, emphasizing that this leadership issue is promoting misleading narratives, which in turn, causes real talent to be overlooked while mediocrity thrives.

“When the wrong people lead the conversation, they push the wrong narratives. That’s why real talent is overlooked, and mediocrity thrives. Congratulations to everyone involved.”

Opinion: An Industry at a Crossroads

Adekunle Gold’s statement highlights a critical issue that many insiders have been quietly murmuring about for years. It’s clear that the Nigerian music industry—one of Africa’s most influential—is struggling to strike a balance between artistry and business. Too often, decisions are made by individuals who lack an understanding of the creative process, leading to an environment where the commercial aspects take priority over genuine artistry.

This issue is not unique to Nigeria; it's one that has been observed globally in various entertainment industries. However, in a country where Afrobeats is gaining international recognition, it’s crucial that industry leaders respect the creative minds behind the music, from songwriters to producers.

Moreover, Adekunle Gold’s call for proper leadership is a timely one. The Nigerian music scene is bursting with talent, yet many artists are still struggling to find their footing in an industry dominated by influencers, managers, and executives who may not understand or prioritize music. It’s vital that the people who shape the industry respect and elevate the voices of those who are truly contributing to the culture.

A Wake-Up Call for Industry Stakeholders

As Adekunle Gold rightly pointed out, mediocrity should not be the standard. For the industry to grow and continue on its international trajectory, true talent needs to be recognized, nurtured, and celebrated. It’s time to ask ourselves, what kind of leadership do we need in this space? Is it time for a shift in who controls the narrative of Nigerian music? Only time will tell, but the call for change has certainly been made loud and clear.

💬 What do you think about Adekunle Gold’s comments? Do you agree that the Nigerian music industry is being misled by the wrong leadership? Let’s discuss below! 👇🎶