I’m Bigger Than Nigeria’ — Seun Kuti Sparks Buzz Amid Backlist Controversy

Speaking on a recent episode of the Saleh Meditate podcast, the singer said he has effectively been sidelined in the Nigerian music industry for over 13 years, which he attributes to the nature of his socially conscious music.

He explained that the situation intensified after he performed politically conscious songs at an event hosted by former Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, adding that restrictions on his music had already existed before then.

According to him, many artists fear being blacklisted because Nigeria constitutes the majority of their fan base, but that is not the case for him.

Seun also reflected on the legacy of his father, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, saying he and his peers used music as a tool to challenge authority and speak against poor governance. He argued that this influence made authorities more aware of the power of music, leading to greater support for less politically conscious artists while sidelining those addressing societal issues.

He further claimed that such interference has affected the depth and quality of contemporary Nigerian music.

Seun maintained that despite the challenges, he remains outspoken and unafraid, stressing that his success outside Nigeria has lessened the impact of any local industry restrictions.