Bright Chimezie Slams Modern Nigerian Music for Lacking Substance

Bright Chimezie criticizes Nigerian music, saying today’s artists lack lyrical substance and urges them to create songs they’ll be proud of decades later

Bright Chimezie criticizes Nigerian music, calling out the new generation of artists for lacking lyrical depth in their songs.

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The veteran highlife legend shared his views on the CreativiTea podcast, expressing concern over the quality of content in modern music.

While acknowledging that the music industry is now more lucrative than in his prime, Chimezie emphasized that financial success shouldn’t overshadow the need for meaningful lyrics.

“Music is more profitable now than my time,” he said. “But the only problem I have with the present crop 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 society?”

Bright Chimezie criticizes Nigerian music with a deep sense of reflection, referencing his iconic 1984 track Respect Africa, which he says still holds meaning today.

He urged younger artists to consider how their work will be perceived decades from now.

“These days, I ask these boys, ‘By the time your music stays up to 40 years, can you sit back with your children, watch yourself and be proud?’ That’s what matters.”

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Despite his criticism, Chimezie applauded the current generation for their hard work and creativity, encouraging them to keep growing — but with a greater focus on lyrical value.