Veteran Afrobeats artist Gabriel Oche Amanyi, popularly known as Terry G, has issued a passionate call for greater respect and recognition of Nigeria’s music legends. Speaking candidly on his X (formerly Twitter) platform, the self-styled “Akpako Master” criticized the prevailing tendency to dismiss veteran artists as irrelevant once they're no longer trending.
In his post, Terry G lamented that many Nigerians are quick to say, “Your time don pass”—a phrase he equated to “brain damage” in terms of how damaging it is to the culture and morale of past contributors to the music industry.
Western Reverence vs. African Disregard
Terry G contrasted African attitudes toward musical pioneers with those in the Western world, where icons such as Jay-Z and Beyoncé continue to receive reverence, regardless of their current chart status.
“In the West, legends are respected for life,” he wrote. “No one calls Jay-Z or Beyoncé outdated. Their impact is honoured.”
He warned that Africa’s habit of discarding its own cultural contributors could have long-term consequences—not just for the artists, but for Afrobeats as a global movement.
Cultural Disconnect: A Deeper Reflection
Terry G didn’t limit his criticism to the music industry alone. He tied the issue to broader cultural attitudes, suggesting that Africans often devalue their heritage in favor of Western ideals.
“That’s why we believe our ancestors were evil, while Western ancestors are seen as gods,” he added.
According to the artist, this mindset must change if Africa is to protect and uplift its creative legacy. “If you don’t keep adding value to yourself and those around you, your worth will fade—no matter how great you once were,” he concluded.
A Message for the Next Generation
Terry G’s message resonates not only as a critique of fan culture and media trends but as a call to action for industry stakeholders, fans, and emerging artists alike. His plea is a reminder that sustained recognition of the pioneers who shaped Afrobeats is essential to ensuring the genre’s continued relevance and integrity.
In a rapidly evolving music landscape, his words add to the growing conversation about how cultural memory and appreciation are critical components of artistic growth—both locally and globally.