By FrontNaija News.
Source: PM News Nigeria
Port Harcourt-born music icon and dancehall maestro, Timaya, has shared his perspective on the evolution of Nigeria’s music industry, saying that it is significantly easier for upcoming artists to break into the industry now than it was during his early career.
Speaking in a recent interview, Timaya—real name Inetimi Alfred Odon—reflected on his journey to stardom, emphasizing the struggles artists faced before the digital and streaming era.
> “When I started, it was very difficult to get your music out there. You had to hustle hard, go from one radio station to another with your CD, and beg DJs to play your song,” he said.
The “Dem Mama” crooner noted that the landscape has changed drastically due to the rise of digital platforms, social media, and streaming services, which have now made it possible for talents to bypass traditional gatekeepers and build direct connections with fans.
> “Now, an artist can drop a song on Instagram or TikTok and blow up overnight. The tools are there. The internet has changed everything,” Timaya explained.
Despite the easier entry into the limelight, Timaya warned that staying relevant remains the real challenge. He emphasized the importance of consistency, authenticity, and understanding one’s sound and audience.
> “It’s one thing to blow, but it’s another to last. A lot of people blow and fade. Longevity takes discipline, good music, and evolution,” he added.
Timaya, who broke into the Nigerian music scene in 2005 with his hit single “Dem Mama”, has since remained a household name, credited with shaping the dancehall and Afrobeat sound in Nigeria. He has also mentored several younger artists and continues to inspire a new generation with his story and sound.
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