Concerns over the place of veteran performers in Nigeria’s fast-evolving music landscape are resurfacing after prominent DJ and producer DJ Neptune criticised what he described as a systemic tendency to sideline long-standing artistes once they hit certain milestones.
In a recent interview with Hip TV, the award-winning DJ noted that, unlike in Western markets where legacy acts and newcomers often thrive side by side, Nigeria’s structure appears to push seasoned creatives to the margins. He argued that the industry’s framework—not a lack of talent or relevance—is largely to blame.
According to him, “In Nigeria, once you reach a certain level they push you aside like, ‘Oya go to that corner, we’re done with you.’ It’s a structural problem. Abroad, the OGs are still as relevant as the newbies. We need to address the structural issues.”
DJ Neptune also underscored the importance of reinvention as a survival strategy. Reflecting on his own career, he said adapting to new trends and shifts in audience tastes has helped him remain active in a highly competitive space.
“Although I don’t plan to do this all my life—when it’s time to take a bow, I will. But what I have just done over the years is that I know when it’s time to re-invent. That’s life. Things are changing so you need to move with the time,” he said.
His comments have added momentum to ongoing conversations about building a more inclusive industry framework—one that preserves space for legacy voices while fostering the rise of new talent.