Eedris Abdulkareem and The Nigeria Music Industry

 

Eedris Turayo Abdulkareem Ajenifuja is a Nigerian singer who sacrificed his career to pave way for the global recognition of Nigeria music industry.

The “Nigeria Jaga Jaga” crooner, profoundly known as Eedris Abdulkareem can be likened to Fela Anikulapo Kuti, who addressed societal issues through music.

Unlike the modern day artists who sings in honor of political leaders for financial gains and recognition, Abdulkareem openly opposed bad governance. Putting his career in line, the fearless musician during his prime called out political leaders, randy university dons and people of authority through his music.

He is the only artist in the history of Nigeria music who has locked horns with an incumbent president. The russ between ex President Olusegun Obasanjo and Eedris Abdulkareem is for the history books.

It is unarguably true that the ease of popularity new generation musicians now enjoy are foundations laid by the likes of Mr Abdulkareem.

The very talented artist does a mix of Afrobeat, hip pop as well as R& B. He is one of the best act out of Nigeria, in terms to rap music.

TMO chief editor while contributing to this article, explained the influence Mr Abdulkareem’s music had on her young adult life as a student in the University of Benin, Nigeria.

“Eedris is one of the finest artists out of Nigeria , no cap. Those days in Hall 1 & Hall 2 in Uniben, the full girls hostel knew the lyrics to Eedris song, word for word.This was in like year 2001/2002 oh, if I am not mistaken”.

During the reign of Eedris Abdulkareem, there was no social media; facebook,instagram or TikTok; where an artist can easily post their songs, promote it and become famous.

The likes of Eedris, Tony Tetuila, Eldee , worked hard and earned the respect of fans.

Take the new generation artist to the times of Mr Abdulkareem, with no social media and see how many of their songs can do well.

In conclusion, Mr Abdulkareem is a genius and a legend who paved the path for afrobeat in Nigeria and should be celebrated as deserved.