Nigerian music icon Eedris Abdulkareem explains how he set the pace for the success of current Nigerian superstars Burna Boy, Wizkid, Davido, and others.

The veteran Nigerian singer discussed his impact on the music industry and emphasized the importance of recognizing his contributions to the growth of Nigerian artistes.

Eedris Abdulkareem claims to have led the movement that resulted in the global recognition that Burna Boy, Wizkid, Davido, and other Nigerian artists enjoy today.

He claimed that his protest against the mistreatment of Nigerian artistes by show promoters in 2004, when he clashed with American rapper 50Cent and his G-Unit bandmates in Nigeria, is the reason Nigerian artistes are now appreciated around the world.

In the most recent episode of The Honest Bunch Podcast, Eedris abdulkareem admitted that his rebellion had an impact on his career, but also stated that it was a beautiful sacrifice that brought the existence of Nigerian artistes Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido.

He said:

“You heard someone like Burna Boy said nobody helped him in Nigeria. Would you have been a star without some people starting the revolution? That is a stupid talk. You wouldn’t have been where you are if we didn’t make this industry what it is; if we didn’t fight for it. Unfortunately, most of them don’t appreciate it. And I don’t give a dime.

“It [fighting for Nigerian music industry] affected my career but it was a beautiful sacrifice that gave birth to Davido, Boy, Wizkid, and everybody today. For me, what’s more important is that I have done what God asked me to do and our music is now allover the world. I have opened the road for them. It’s their responsibility to appreciate the fight. And if them don’t, I don’t give a dime.”