Bright Chimezie Urges Young Musicians to Prioritize Meaningful Lyrics Over Trends
Veteran highlife icon Bright Chimezie has called on emerging artists to place greater importance on the substance of their lyrics rather than chasing fleeting trends.
During a recent appearance on the CreativTea podcast, Chimezie acknowledged the technical excellence and financial success of today’s musicians. However, he expressed concern over what he sees as a growing lack of depth in their lyrical content. “Music is more profitable now than before. The only problem I have with the present crop of artists is their lyrical content,” he remarked.
Reflecting on his own career, Chimezie cited his 1984 hit “Respect Africa” as an enduring piece he still takes pride in decades later. “I remember I did ‘Respect Africa’ in 1984, that’s about 40 years ago. But I can still watch what I did 40 years ago and be proud of my lyrics,” he said, urging younger musicians to strive for similar longevity and integrity.
Chimezie challenged artists to consider the lasting impact of their work, asking whether they would feel proud hearing their songs decades from now, as they sit with their children. “By the time your music stays up to 40 years, can you sit back with your children, see yourself and be proud of yourself?” he asked.