Artistes no longer make meaningful music – Bright Chimezie
Veteran Nigerian musician Bright Chimezie has voiced concerns about the lack of lyrical depth in today’s music. While acknowledging that many contemporary artists produce catchy tunes, he noted that their songs often fall short in meaningful content.
Speaking on a recent episode of the CreativTea podcast, Chimezie urged younger musicians to focus on incorporating rich, thoughtful lyrics into their work. He reflected on his own era, saying that the music he and his peers created during their peak stood the test of time because of its substance and lasting impact.
”Music is more profitable now than my time. The only problem I have with the present crops of artists, is their lyrical content. In terms of rhythms and every other thing, they are doing quite okay.
“But, what message are they passing to the society? Some of the things we [me and my contemporaries] sing stick. I remember I did ‘Respect Africa’ in 1984, that’s about 40 years ago. But I can still watch what I did 40 years ago and be proud of my lyrics.
“These days, I ask these boys, ‘The things that are coming out from your mouth, by the time your music stays up to 40 years, can you sit back with your children, see yourself and be proud of yourself?’
“So, those are the things. They are doing very well. But I think it is very important for them to add good lyrics to their music,” he noted.
