Veteran Nigerian musician Baba Fryo has expressed concerns over the increasing difficulty of producing a hit song in today’s music industry, arguing that many artists are now relying on stunts and controversies to gain attention.
In a recent episode of the I Say What I Say podcast, Baba Fryo criticized the trend of using shock value and comparisons to legendary figures as marketing tools. He singled out the recent debate around Wizkid allegedly comparing himself to the late Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, describing it as a deliberate publicity move tied to the promotion of his joint EP with Asake, Real.
“It takes a lot to get a mega hit now. Some go even do some kind stunt. Shey you dey see the one with ‘Wizkid pass Fela’? All these ones na stunt,” he said.
Baba Fryo argued that many contemporary artists spark controversies intentionally to drive streams and social media buzz, a strategy largely absent during his own career. “It used to be simpler to create a hit. Back then, it was all about the music and genuine public acceptance, with minimal promotion,” he recalled.
The veteran musician also leveled criticism at DJs, music executives, and industry players, claiming that some actively hinder quality music in favor of chasing fleeting trends.
He urged Nigerian artists and music executives to refocus on producing music that resonates with audiences, rather than prioritizing online virality and trend-chasing. “The industry should value good music first, not social media stunts,” he concluded.