Veteran musician, Eedris Abdulkareem has made daring assertions concerning his important contribution to the worldwide recognition of Nigerian artists resembling Davido, Burna Boy, and Wizkid.
In an interview with The Trustworthy Bunch Podcast launched on Monday, February 19, 2024, Abdulkareem credited his 2004 riot in opposition to mistreatment of Nigerian artists by live performance promoters because the catalyst for the worldwide rise of Nigerian music.
Abdulkareem recalled the pivotal second when he stood up in opposition to live performance promoters’ exploitation, which culminated in a bodily altercation with American rapper, 50 Cent and his G-Unit associates throughout a go to to Nigeria. Regardless of acknowledging that his riot had repercussions on his personal profession, Abdulkareem emphasised its optimistic impression on the Nigerian music trade, attributing the emergence of stars like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido to the revolution he ignited.
Dismissing claims of unaided success from some up to date artists, Abdulkareem asserted that the groundwork laid by pioneers like himself paved the way in which for the present technology’s achievements. He emphasised the significance of acknowledging the sacrifices made to raise the Nigerian music trade to its present world stature.
Addressing criticisms and lack of appreciation from some quarters, Abdulkareem remained resolute, stating that his main concern was fulfilling his function as directed by God. He expressed indifference in the direction of recognition, emphasizing that his focus was on leaving a legacy of empowerment and paving the way in which for future generations of Nigerian musicians.
In his phrases, he acknowledged that, “I f you do not struggle on your trade, no person will struggle for you. You heard somebody like Burna Boy stated no person helped him in Nigeria. Would you’ve been a star with out some folks beginning the revolution? That could be a silly speak. You wouldn’t have been the place you might be if we didn’t make this trade what it’s; if we didn’t struggle for it. Sadly, most of them don’t recognize it. And I don’t give a dime.”
“It [fighting for Nigerian music industry] affected my profession however it was an exquisite sacrifice that gave start to Davido, Boy, Wizkid, and all people immediately. For me, what’s extra necessary is that I’ve carried out what God requested me to do and our music is now allover the world. I’ve opened the highway for them. It’s their duty to understand the struggle. And if them don’t, I don’t give a dime,” he added.
Abdulkareem’s remarks function a reminder of the struggles and sacrifices endured by early pioneers to determine Nigeria’s presence on the worldwide music scene. His perspective provides depth to discussions surrounding the evolution of Nigerian music and the debt of gratitude owed to those that laid the muse for its worldwide success.
