Popular Nigerian Afrobeat musician, Femi Kuti, has attributed his lasting success in the music industry to creating meaningful and impactful music, rather than chasing fleeting fame.
On a recent episode of the Afropolitan podcast, he emphasized the importance of dedication to one’s craft, citing legendary musicians like Miles Davis and Stevie Wonder as examples of artists who have honed their skills through consistent practice.
“When the head is not right, nothing can be right. I like what young artists do, but what would they do when they are 50 years old?” he asked himself.
According to him, his enduring relevance in the music industry is due to creating music with purpose and meaning, which has allowed him to maintain a successful career for more than 40 years.
“I can proudly tell you that I’m still on tour. It’s because my fans will still introduce me to their children and their children’s children. So they will see very old children and my concerts. There are people who have followed me for 15, 20 years and they still bring my albums to sign.
“But why? Consistency. And I have something to offer. If you’re not writing your music and you’re shopping, and you’re jumping around, would you still be doing that at 40?”
He added by emphasizing the importance of dedication to one’s craft, citing legendary musicians such as Miles Davies and Stevie Wonder as examples of artists who have honed their skills through constant practice.
“The reason, probably, why I am respected is that I will continue to show skill and energy. I am committed. If I pick up my sax, you will know that this guy is working. I wrote everything. You (young artists) buy their songs and don’t want to learn. Music is like medicine. People like Miles Davies, Stevie Wonder and some others are famous because they are working. They are practicing,” he added.
Femi further advised young artists to focus on developing their skills and producing quality music, rather than rushing to make hit songs. He warns that prioritizing fame over art can lead to a decline in fame and fortune in the long run.
“But young artists just rush into making music to get hit songs. You could make two or three. You’re young, so you don’t see the danger: the next generation will have their star and then you’ll fade away,” he said.
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