Veteran Nigerian highlife musician, Bright Chimezie, has raised concerns over what he described as a lack of lyrical content in today’s music, urging younger artistes to pay more attention to their songwriting.
Speaking on a recent episode of the CreativTea podcast, Chimezie acknowledged that the current generation of musicians is making great strides in sound and creativity. However, he stressed that much of the music being produced falls short in lyrical richness and depth.
“The present crop of musicians are doing great in terms of sound and production,” he said, “but the lyrical content is missing. Music should not just entertain; it should also educate, inspire, and leave a lasting impression.”
Chimezie, fondly known as the Zigima Sound creator, built his career on songs that blended social commentary with entertainment. He advised young artistes to see lyrics as an important tool for storytelling and cultural preservation.
His remarks come amid ongoing debates about the direction of Nigerian music, which has gained massive global recognition through Afrobeats and other contemporary genres. While many celebrate the international success of younger stars, critics argue that the emphasis on rhythm and beats has overshadowed meaningful songwriting.
Chimezie’s call adds to a growing chorus of voices urging artistes to strike a balance between commercial appeal and lyrical depth. Observers say such advice, coming from a respected veteran, could influence younger performers to rethink their creative process.
For now, the conversation around Nigerian music continues, with questions about whether the industry can maintain global dominance while still producing songs with enduring lyrical value.
