Veteran Nigerian musician Bright Chimezie has raised concerns over what he described as the decline of lyrical depth in contemporary music.
Speaking on the CreativTea podcast, Chimezie acknowledged that the current generation of artists is producing commercially successful and rhythmically appealing songs but argued that many lack meaningful content.
“Music is more profitable now than in my time. The only problem I have with the present crop of artists is their lyrical content,” he said.
The highlife legend, best known for his hit “Respect Africa” released in 1984, noted that music from his era carried messages that still resonate decades later.
“I can still watch what I did 40 years ago and be proud of my lyrics,” he said. “But I ask these boys—when your music stays up to 40 years, can you sit back with your children and be proud of yourself?”
Chimezie urged younger musicians to blend their innovative rhythms with lyrics that offer value to listeners and society at large.
“They are doing very well,” he added. “But I think it is very important for them to add good lyrics to their music.”
The remarks add to ongoing debates about the evolution of Nigerian music, where global recognition has boosted visibility but also sparked criticism over substance and long-term cultural impact.
