Controversial Nigerian street-pop sensation Habeeb Okikiola Badmus, widely known as Portable, has sparked fresh debate in the music industry after calling out the country’s biggest musical exports. In a recent video broadcast, the ‘Zazu’ crooner claimed that immense wealth and fame have diluted the creativity of megastars Wizkid, Davido, Burna Boy, and Olamide.
The Traps of Too Much Comfort
According to Portable, the lifestyle of luxury and comfort enjoyed by these A-list artists has disconnected them from the daily realities of the average Nigerian. He argued that their current discographies lack the substance and motivation that once defined their earlier work, shifting instead toward superficial themes.
“I noticed that Davido, Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Olamide don’t praise God in their songs; they only sing about ladies,” Portable asserted in his broadcast. “Is it because they already have money and they believe they can’t fall? Their songs have no motivation. No sensible lyrics. Just women and vanity.”
A Push for Conscious and Gospel Music
The self-proclaimed ‘street-born’ artist urged his colleagues to retrace their steps, emphasizing that financial success should not dictate the message of their art. He advocated for a return to conscious music and songs that offer spiritual or moral guidance to listeners.
Portable admonished the music heavyweights to diversify their themes and create songs that resonate on a deeper level. “Make conscious music. We are tired of all those songs about frivolities. I am also a musician. You all should do better,” he added.
While Portable himself is no stranger to controversy frequently making headlines for public feuds and viral antics his latest critique touches on a growing sentiment among some music purists who believe the globalized Afrobeats sound is increasingly favoring catchy club beats over lyrical depth.
Watch the video below..