Afrobeat legend, Femi Kuti, has revealed the secret behind his continued relevance.
Kuti has been on the scene for some three decades and he still retains his audience internationally.
According to him, he keeps working hard and developing himself without focusing on just hit songs.
He said focusing on hit songs and stage theatrics alone would not sustain an artiste, adding that young creatives should learn to cultivate a bond between them and music consumers.
In a recent episode of the Afropolitan podcast, the singer-songwriter advised young artists to focus on producing quality music rather than rushing to create hit songs.
He said: “When the head is not correct, nothing can be correct. I like what young artists are doing, but what would they do when they are 50?”
According to Kuti, his commitment to crafting purposeful music has enabled him to maintain relevance for over four decades.
“I can proudly tell you I’m still touring. It’s because my fans will still introduce me to their children and their children’s children. So you will see very old and children at my concerts. There are people that have followed me for 15, 20 years and still bringing my albums to sign.
“But why? Consistency. And I have something to offer. If you are not writing your music and you are buying, and you are jumping, would you still be doing that at 40?”
Kuti emphasised the importance of dedication to one’s craft, citing legendary musicians like Miles Davies and Stevie Wonder as examples of artists who have honed their skills through consistent practice.
He added: “The reason, probably, I’m respected is, I will still show dexterity, energy. I’m committed. If I pick up my sax, you will know that this guy is working. I composed everything. You (young artists) buy your songs, and you don’t want to learn. Music is like medicine. The likes of Miles Davies, Stevie Wonder and a few others are renowned because they are working. They are practicing”.
He warned young artists against prioritising fame over artistry, cautioning that neglecting to develop their skills would lead to dwindling fame and fortune in the long run.
According to him: “But young artists just rush into making music to get hit songs. You might make two or three. You are young so you are not seeing the danger -the next generation will have their star and then you will fade away.”
