Honour your music legends – Terry G urges Nigerians

Veteran Afrobeats singer, Terry G, has called on Nigerians to treat music legends with the respect they deserve, regardless of whether they’re still in the spotlight.

The “Akpako Master” expressed concern over a growing culture of dismissiveness, where influential artists are cast aside once they’re perceived as no longer relevant. He noted that this attitude is in stark contrast to what is seen in Western countries, where music icons are celebrated for life.

Taking to his X (formerly Twitter) account, Terry G wrote:

He pointed out that in the West, legends like Jay-Z and Beyoncé continue to receive recognition and admiration, regardless of whether they’re topping charts. But in Nigeria, he says, once artists step out of the mainstream, they’re often forgotten.

Terry G warned that if Africans—especially Nigerians—fail to appreciate and honour those who laid the groundwork for the music industry, Afrobeats could suffer in the long run, no matter how globally successful it becomes.

He concluded by encouraging people to change their mentality, adding that relevance isn’t only about being current, but also about preserving the value and legacy of those who paved the way.

He wrote: , “I hear people say, ‘Your time don pass!’—and it sounds like brain damage.

“In the West, legends are respected for life. No one calls Jay-Z or Beyoncé outdated. Their impact is honoured.

“But here in Africa, especially Nigeria, we’re quick to discard our own. That’s why we believe our ancestors were evil, while Western ancestors are seen as gods.

“It’s time to break free from that mindset. If you don’t keep adding value to yourself and those around you, your worth will fade—no matter how great you once were. We must do better