Veteran Artist Addresses a Growing Concern
Legendary Nigerian singer Innocent Idibia, known to fans worldwide as 2Baba, has weighed in on what many in the industry are calling a trend of mediocrity among contemporary Nigerian artists. In a recent video broadcast, the Afrobeats icon shared his perspective on why some acts are being tagged as “wack” and what can be done to raise the overall bar of quality in the music scene.
The Crux of the Issue: Quality Versus Quantity
2Baba’s comments touch on a familiar tension in a fast-moving industry: the pressure to release music quickly in order to stay visible, sometimes at the expense of artistry. He emphasized that consistency matters, but it must be paired with refined craft, original storytelling, and professional production. For many fans and observers, his point underscores a broader call for substance over sheer volume—a push to prioritize well-conceived songs, strong melodies, and memorable performances.
Craft, Not Noise: What Sets Great Artists Apart
In discussions like these, 2Baba often returns to the fundamentals of music: compelling hooks, relatable lyrics, and a distinctive voice. He suggested that sustainable success in the Nigerian music industry comes from artists who invest in songwriting, vocal training, and high-quality production, rather than chasing viral moments alone. His remarks align with a growing sentiment among industry veterans who warn against the normalization of mediocrity and urge emerging talents to focus on lasting artistry.
<h2 Industry Response and the Path Forward
Reaction to the video has been mixed, with some fans praising the veteran for speaking truth to power, while others argue that the landscape rewards experimentation and risk-taking as much as it does polish. Nonetheless, 2Baba’s message resonates beyond nostalgia. It invites a constructive dialogue among stakeholders—artists, producers, managers, and platforms—about investing in better material, ethical promotion, and fair compensation for creators.
<h2 Practical Steps for Rising Artists
While opinions differ on what should change first, several practical steps emerge from 2Baba’s perspective and broader industry best practices:
– Focus on quality production: select producers and studios that can deliver top-tier sound engineering and mastering.
– Invest in writing and vocal development: take time to refine lyrics and melody, and consider coaching to polish performances.
– Build a cohesive brand: craft a unique artistic identity that stands out without compromising musical integrity.
– Prioritize storytelling: use authentic narratives that connect with audiences across demographics and geographies.
– Embrace feedback: engage with listeners, critics, and peers to continuously improve without sacrificing personal authenticity.
<h2 Conclusion: A Moment for Reflection in Nigerian Music
2Baba’s remarks remind the Nigerian music industry that credibility and longevity come from dedication to craft, not just rapid releases or catchy hooks. As artists navigate an increasingly crowded market, the ongoing conversation about mediocrity may encourage a more thoughtful approach to music-making—one that values artistry as much as popularity. Fans can expect that the best work from Nigeria’s music icons will continue to win enduring respect, while new talents rise by proving they can deliver both creativity and consistency.
