Angélique Kidjo Explains Why She Steers Clear of Political Endorsements
Grammy-winner Angélique Kidjo says she avoids making music for politicians because power is fleeting and artists aligned with it risk losing relevance when regimes change.
Olamide, veteran rapper and YBNL head, has made it clear he is not desperate for international recognition. He said he will never pay for an international collaboration because staying authentic matters more.
He argued that artists like Fela Kuti succeeded internationally without chasing or paying for foreign features. Olamide believes his relevance comes from hard work, not from buying global validation.
Why He Rejects Paying for Foreign Features
Olamide said many promoters suggested paying large sums to secure foreign acts on his songs. He rejected the idea. He said art must speak for itself and paying for recognition undermines that authenticity.
Staying Rooted in Local Culture
He emphasized that his music speaks for the streets and his local audience. Olamide believes relevance begins at home before any global talk. For him, success is layered and not defined by foreign awards or features.
What This Means for His Career
While many peers pursue international collaborations and features, Olamide appears focused on his path: building his label, mentoring younger talent, and reinforcing his legacy in Nigerian music.
