Grammy Using Nigerians To Boost GDP Of Los Angeles
Musician Cobhams Asuquo Critiques Grammy Awards After 68th Ceremony
Los Angeles — Musician and producer Cobhams Asuquo expressed disappointment following the 68th Annual Grammy Awards held in Los Angeles. In a video posted on Instagram, Asuquo raised concerns about the absence of awards for Nigerian artists during the ceremony.
Asuquo remarked that the Grammy Awards appear to leverage the popularity of Nigerian artists to enhance the economic benefits of the Los Angeles area, while only providing “fleeting recognition” in return. “I think the Grammy is using Nigerians to boost the GDP of Los Angeles. It’s like a carrot dangling in front of us, and it goes away,” he stated.
He highlighted the pattern of Nigerian artists receiving nominations yet lacking wins, which he views as indicative of a flawed validation system within the music industry. Asuquo emphasized the need for a stronger foundation for the local music industry rather than focusing predominantly on international recognition. “I think we need to build something that is ours. It’s only America that will do the Super Bowl and play it themselves,” he added.
At the Grammy ceremony, South African artist Tyla won the Best African Music Performance award for her song “Push 2 Start,” surpassing several Nigerian competitors, including Davido, Omah Lay, Burna Boy, Ayra Starr, and Wizkid.
