On Tuesday, the Nigerian music industry was struck by the tragic news of the passing of 27-year-old musician and former Marlian Records signee, Mohbad.
His demise was announced by music executive Ovie through his Instagram page, sparking a wave of condolences and tributes from fans and fellow artists alike.
In the wake of Mohbad’s death, his music experienced a significant surge in popularity, with over 400,000 streams on Spotify within just 24 hours.
His songs also began climbing the charts on major streaming platforms such as Apple Music and Spotify, a testament to his impact on the music scene.
However, it was another Nigerian musician, Otega, who stepped forward to express his concerns about recognition and appreciation within the industry.
Otega conveyed his sentiments through a video posted on his Twitter account, addressing the challenges faced by artists during their careers, particularly when it comes to acknowledgment and support.
“Hey there, as I find myself in this moment, I want to discuss something that’s been on my mind, something that’s been bothering me,” Otega began.
He began by paying his respects to the late Mohbad, saying, “Firstly, may Mohbad rest in peace. I pray that wherever he is, he finds the peace he longed for. Rest in peace, Dablizz OSHA.”
Otega then raised a thought-provoking question, “So, do I have to rest in peace myself before I see my songs reach number 1 on all platforms? Do I have to be gone before they show me the love and appreciation I deserve? I’ve been in this industry for over a decade, consistently releasing songs, but it feels like no one’s lending a hand or showing any love.”
He highlighted the tendency for artists to receive recognition only after their passing, saying, “I understand that sometimes people only appreciate artists after they’re gone, discovering their music posthumously.
But I’m here now, alive and kicking, and it shouldn’t take my demise for my songs to top the charts. I want you all to listen to my music, to stream it, to show me the love and support that’s been lacking.”
Otega questioned why artists have to wait until they are no longer alive to receive the recognition they deserve. “Why should I have to be gone before you show me love? I’ve done promotions, I’ve paid bloggers, I’ve tried everything, but the love and help are still missing.”
He also expressed frustration about the challenges faced by independent artists in collaborating with major artists, stating, “So, if I’m not part of a record label or don’t have connections, does that mean I can’t collaborate with major artists? It’s frustrating.”
Otega emphasized the joy that Mohbad would have felt if he had witnessed his song reaching number one, and he expressed his concern about the current situation in the music industry.
“Imagine if my friend Mohbad were still here to witness his song hitting number one. The joy he’d feel each day. This situation is getting out of hand.”
In conclusion, Otega acknowledged the lack of support and recognition within the industry, urging his fans and listeners to help him achieve the success he aspires to.
“There’s no love, no help; it’s just us pushing ourselves. Even when we deserve recognition, they block us. But I want to thank you in advance for listening to my music, for helping me see it reach the top.”
Otega posed a final question to his audience, asking, “Doesn’t Otega motivate you? Doesn’t he convey messages through his songs? Doesn’t he provide you with great music?”
The speech by Otega has sparked a conversation within the Nigerian music community about the challenges faced by artists in achieving recognition and success during their lifetimes.
It remains to be seen whether his words will lead to a greater awareness of these issues and a shift in how artists are supported and celebrated in the industry.
