Veteran Afrobeats artiste Terry G (Gabriel Oche Amanyi) has called on Nigerians to show more respect for music legends, regardless of whether they’re still on the spotlight,
warning that continued disregard could undermine the future of Afrobeats.
He expressed concern over the tendency to label older artists as “outdated”, noting that unlike in Western countries, where legends are celebrated and honoured, many African societies often disregard their contributions.
The Akpako Master criticised the tendency to dismiss older artists as “outdated”, stressing that in contrast, the Western world celebrates its music icons. “If we don’t value our legends, no matter how big Afrobeats gets, it may lose relevance one day,” he warned.
On his X handle, he wrote, “I hear people say, ‘Your time don pass!’—and it sounds like brain damage.
“In the West, legends are respected for life. No one calls Jay-Z or Beyoncé outdated. Their impact is honoured.
“But here in Africa, especially Nigeria, we’re quick to discard our own. That’s why we believe our ancestors were evil, while Western ancestors are seen as gods.
“It’s time to break free from that mindset. If you don’t keep adding value to yourself and those around you, your worth will fade—no matter how great you once were. We must do better.”
