Veteran Nigerian highlife legend Bright Chimezie has expressed concern over the decline in lyrical quality of today’s music compared to past decades
Speaking on a recent episode of the CreativTea podcast, Chimezie said many contemporary artists focus on rhythm and commercial appeal but neglect meaningful lyrics that can stand the test of time.
“Music is more profitable now than it was in my time. The only problem I have with today’s artists is their lyrical content. In terms of rhythm and production, they’re doing well. But what message are they passing to society?” he asked.
He recalled his 1984 classic Respect Africa, noting that even 40 years later, he remains proud of its message and depth. “I can look back at what I did then and still hold my head high because of the lyrics,” he said.
Chimezie urged younger musicians to think about longevity when creating songs. “When your music is 40 years old, can you sit with your children, watch yourself, and be proud of your lyrics? That is the real test,” he stressed.
While commending the creativity and success of today’s stars, he maintained that embedding rich messages into music is essential for lasting impact.
Follow Us on Facebook – @LadunLiadi; Instagram – @LadunLiadi; Twitter – @LadunLiadi; Youtube – @LadunLiadiTV for updates
