Veteran Nigerian musician Femi Kuti has revealed that the secret to longevity in the music industry is creating substantial music.
The 63-year-old veteran singer explained that the reason he has remained relevant for over four decades is that he composed purposeful music.
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He challenged young artists to humble themselves and learn how to make proper music, warning that failure to do so would lead to dwindling fame and fortune at old age.
Speaking in a recent episode of the Afropolitan podcast, Kuti advised young artists to be mindful of their age when making music.
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The interviewer asked: “What do you think is killing the Nigerian music industry now?”
Kuti replied: “When the head is not correct, nothing can be correct. I like what young artists are doing, but what would they do when they are 50?
“The reason, probably, I respect is, I will still show dexterity, energy. I’m committed. If I pick up my sax, you will know that this guy is working. I composed everything. You (young artists) buy your songs, and you don’t want to learn. Music is like medicine. The likes of Miles Davis, Stevie Wonder, and a few others are renowned because they are working. They are practicing.
“But young artists just rush into making music to get hit songs. You might make two or three. You are young, so you are not seeing the danger -the next generation will have its star, and then you will fade away.
“I can proudly tell you I’m still touring. It’s because my fans will still introduce me to their children and their children’s children. So you will see very old people and children at my concerts. Some people have followed me for 15, 20 years, and are still bringing my albums to sign. But why? Consistency. And I have something to offer. If you are not writing your music and you are buying, and you are jumping, would you still be doing that at 40?”
