FIREBOY DML: LACK OF STRUCTURE HINDERS NIGERIAN ARTIST TOURS
Written by Olakunle Oke on December 12, 2023
Popular singer Adedamola Adefolahan, known as Fireboy DML, has shed light on the curious phenomenon of Nigerian artists thriving internationally while rarely touring their home country. In a recent interview, he attributed this to the lack of a structured music industry within Nigeria.
“Everyone is saying ‘Afrobeats to the world.’ The music is perfect,” Fireboy remarked. “But there is no structure.”
He elaborated on the specific challenges artists face when attempting to organize tours within Nigeria, including:
- Limited infrastructure: A lack of adequate concert venues, reliable logistics, and efficient ticketing systems creates a logistical nightmare for touring artists.
- Financial constraints: The high cost of organizing tours, coupled with the unpredictable nature of ticket sales, discourages artists from undertaking such ventures.
- Security concerns: Concerns about safety and security, particularly in certain regions of the country, can pose a significant deterrent to touring.
While Nigerian artists have achieved immense success on the global stage, their lack of domestic touring limits their reach and impact within their own country. Fireboy’s statement highlights the need for urgent development of a robust music infrastructure within Nigeria.
This development would require a collaborative effort from various stakeholders, including:
- Government: Investing in infrastructure, providing financial support, and implementing policies that encourage artist development and touring.
- Music industry players: Collaborating to create a standardized system for tour planning, promotion, and ticketing.
- Private sector: Investing in the construction of concert venues and providing sponsorship opportunities for artists.
By addressing the existing structural challenges, Nigeria can unlock the full potential of its vibrant music scene and ensure that its artists can flourish both at home and abroad.
