Money, fame affecting Nigerian artists’ creativity – Portable claims
Nigerian Singer Portable Critiques Fellow Artists Over Creative Stagnation
Controversial Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola Badmus, known as Portable, has expressed concern that many prominent artists in the country are becoming disconnected from their roots due to excessive wealth and fame, which he believes is hampering their creativity.
In a recent video, Portable criticized megastars including Wizkid, Davido, Burna Boy, and Olamide for what he perceives as an overemphasis on materialism in their music. He argued that their lyrics focus primarily on women and lavish lifestyles rather than addressing the realities faced by everyday people.
According to Portable, the current trend in their music lacks motivational content and fails to impart valuable lessons. He urged his peers to reconsider their artistic direction and warned that financial success is not the sole measure of a musician’s worth.
“We are tired of songs about frivolities. Music should inspire,” Portable stated, urging his colleagues to create more conscious and gospel-oriented tracks. He lamented, “I noticed that Davido, Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Olamide don’t praise God in their songs; they only sing about ladies. Their lyrics lack depth and motivation.”
Portable concluded by calling on fellow musicians to strive for better artistry, emphasizing the importance of producing music that resonates with a broader audience.