Paul
The kind of reception Afrobrat is getting right is out of this world. and it is only nice for anyone who manages to get a slice of that attention to by any means find to way to sustain it,
With that said, I will be sharing the best advice for new and upcoming artists in Nigeria to stay relevant.
In Nigeria right now, staying relevant is essential for new and aspiring artists. With countless musicians vying for attention, artists who break into the scene often struggle to sustain long-term success. Artists like 2Baba, D’banj, and Wizkid have remained relevant for years by mastering strategic approaches that build loyal fan bases and maintain consistent appeal.
Here are key industry tips for Nigerian artists aiming to create lasting impressions and avoid becoming one-hit wonders.
1. Focus on Consistency, Not Just Hits
One-hit wonders often fail to stay relevant because they rely too heavily on a single success. Legendary Nigerian artists, such as 2Baba (formerly 2Face), are known for consistently releasing music, experimenting with genres, and diversifying their sound. Emerging artists should develop a roadmap for frequent releases, whether singles, features, or EPs, to keep their audience engaged. Maintaining a steady stream of new music shows dedication and keeps fans anticipating what’s next.
2. Embrace Collaborations with Established and Emerging Artists
Collaborations have proven to be beneficial for building reach and gaining exposure to new audiences. Wizkid, for example, has kept his relevance by collaborating with global stars, expanding his fan base across continents. New Nigerian artists should seek collaborations with both established artists and fresh talent, using these partnerships to reach new listeners and diversify their musical styles.
3. Leverage Social Media and Engage with Fans Consistently
In today’s digital world, social media presence is essential. Regular engagement with fans through platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok helps artists stay connected to their audience, and building a strong online community creates a loyal following. Davido has effectively used social media to build an authentic connection with fans, consistently sharing updates and behind-the-scenes content that fans can relate to.
4. Invest in Professional Branding and Visuals
Your brand as an artist encompasses your music, visuals, and persona. Burna Boy’s success is not just from his music but from creating a strong, memorable brand. New Nigerian artists should invest in high-quality visuals, album artwork, and music videos. Creating a distinct brand identity that resonates with fans and embodies the artist’s message adds value to the music, making it memorable and unique.
5. Stay Adaptable and Evolve with Trends
The music industry is constantly evolving, and artists who adapt tend to stay relevant longer. Nigerian artists like D’banj adapted to changes in Afrobeats by collaborating with international producers and artists. To remain competitive, emerging artists should stay up-to-date with industry trends, both in Nigeria and globally, and be willing to experiment with their sound and style as the genre evolves.
6. Build a Strong Team and Network
A reliable team can play a significant role in helping an artist navigate the complexities of the music industry. New artists should focus on building a team of trustworthy individuals, including managers, producers, and promoters, who can guide them in making smart career choices and expanding their reach. A strong network ensures better collaboration opportunities, brand partnerships, and exposure.
7. Monetize Beyond Music
Long-term success often comes from diversifying revenue streams. Artists like Banky W have managed to stay relevant by branching into acting, politics, and entrepreneurship. For Nigerian artists, branching into different ventures or merchandise can provide additional income streams while expanding their brand presence.
Staying relevant in Nigeria’s music industry requires strategic planning, a willingness to adapt, and consistent engagement. By learning from successful, long-standing artists, today’s emerging stars can establish themselves and build a career that lasts
