Seun Kuti, an Afrobeat musician who is nominated for a Grammy, has stated that he is unaffected by being blacklisted in Nigeria because his fan base there is so small.
Seun claimed in a recent episode of the Saleh Meditate podcast that he has been shunned by the Nigerian music industry for roughly 13 years because of his musical style.
He said, “The impact of Fela and his contemporaries who spoke truth to power sacred the government. They made the government realised the power of artistry. So, the government invested more in artists who don’t make conscious music than artists who sing about realities.
“When I am in Nigeria, I don’t fear to say whatever I want to say. That is a lot of people are saying that I should be cancelled. I have been cancelled for about 13 years now after I performed conscious music at former Lagos State Governor Ambode’s event. Even before then, my music was heavily restricted.
“I have been cancelled for long time. People think I am not cancelled because I am doing well. Nigeria has cancelled me for a long time but Nigeria is just like a really small percentage of my market. So, being cancelled doesn’t really affect me.”
Seun Kuti’s reflection on over a decade of musical blacklisting highlights the enduring challenges faced by artists who stand for their principles and express their truth. Despite the obstacles, his resilience and unwavering commitment to his craft serve as an inspiring reminder of the power of perseverance in the face of adversity.
His experience underscores the importance of artistic freedom and the ongoing struggle for expression in a complex cultural landscape.
Live with Purpose, Love with Passion. Remember to be happy
One 
Rose Ajieh
