Should Music Collaborations Carry A Huge Price Tag?

Yet somehow, for some reason, the majority still wonder if it’s a constructive scheme and perhaps the ideal technique for togetherness in the continent. According to Shakespeare, “If music be the food of love, play on,” but at what cost would the music play?

Should the cost for music collaborations be the yardstick for its value? If young artists still carry the pressure of the price tag for hooking up with these superstars and do not hesitate or feel ashamed to showcase their frustrations and struggle to raise these funds, then what is the essence of it being a symbol for unity?

Yes! We know many of these superstars have also paid their dues dearly and have worked hard to achieve success. Yet the saying goes, “Why should my child go through what I went through when I can just make it easier for him?”

“Young stars need serious guidance and support to achieve their dreams,” says musician Sunny Nneji. “You don’t just sing because you heard your neighbor’s son’s music is on top of the charts. You have to have talent and the drive to push it through.”

Tuface Idibia is perhaps the continent’s biggest music export now, yet from very close sources, the man has humbly made younger stars with amazing talents shine without collecting a dime. Maybe not everyone is the same, but aren’t we supposed to live by example?

“Collaboration with unknown artists, for me, is like giving a special gift to a blind man. He doesn’t see you but deeply appreciates your genuine offering. I find the act satisfying and contributive to someone else’s career for life. That, for me is what brings true happiness and gratitude,” Tuface explains.

“Born for this” was a powerful come-together of South Africa’s phenomenal talents —HHP, Tear Gas and Liquid Deep—and the song was grand. Doubt if any of them got a paycheck for it. But the song got Africa’s attention as one of the biggest music collaborations of all time.

Na fame we di chop? No! But the profits from some of these big songs are sometimes sent towards humanitarian purposes. Now, how good is that? Superstars in Europe and America do it, so why can’t our Nigerian stars follow suit? Making big collaborations to serve as food to a hungry child somewhere—isn’t that a valid reason for making great music, too?

Could music be allowed to serve its purpose in Africa not just as a money maker but also as a life changer and an instrument for peace, happiness and development? Let’s try to come together and do good music without always worrying about who pays what to get who in the studio.