YCee asserted that lack of innovation by promoters and disrespect are the reasons rappers in Nigeria switch from rap music to other genres
By Kehinde Okeowo
Nigerian rapper, singer, and songwriter, Oludemilade Martin Alejo, known professionally as YCee, has berated the organisers of Rick Ross’ Easter concert for leaving out Nigerian rappers.
The show tagged ‘Rick Ross Live In Lagos’ featured popular singers including Davido, Tiwa Savage, Mayorkun, DJ Obi, The Cavemen, Fave, and DJ Yin among others but featured no rapper
The ‘Condo’ crooner took to his Twitter handle to call out the promoters of the show for organising one involving a veteran American rapper without any known Nigerian rapper.
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He went on to say he wasn’t fighting for himself but asserted that such lack of innovation is why rappers in Nigeria switch from rap music to other genres.
He wrote, “Bruh this ain’t even about me cos I haven’t put out rap music in a while but how do you have a Rick Ross show in Nigeria and not have ONE SINGLE NIGERIAN RAPPER ON THE LINE UP??? And tomorrow you wanna come on Twitter and ask why rappers are switching genres,”
YCee was backed by another colleague, Jude Abaga, popularly known as MI, who through a series of tweets concluded that such disrespect will continue until the rappers come together and become more formidable.
He also said he requested to meet with Rick Ross personally after being invited but the organisers of the show declined his proposition.
He, however, advised his rap colleagues to close ranks and keep making great music for the fans who care about them, as that will break the barrier of being constantly ignored.
“Lot of rappers would have ate if they listened to me. Not every opinion is equal.
“That’s how I created the wave the first time!!! Every single time I gave them music I never cheated them. I made classic after classic and am relentless still.. the guy is my best album yet coming soon! Classic.. give your best and the music will grow!
“Lastly. I was invited to meet Rick Ross. I responded by saying if I could do it one on one. Ofcourse they declined.. the afrobeats industry will not respect Hiphop just because.. that’s fine. Let’s accept it as what it is and make GREAT MUSIC FOR THE ONES who do care.
“My first big gig ever was in 2008 with Jay Z and Rihanna and Usher.. how I was treated that day taught me a valuable lesson.. them no go respect us.. until we respect ourselves.
“Let’s support each other. I just posted a Paybac verse.. let’s see how many other rappers will repost.. push the culture and inevitably push yourself.. give the fans quality.” MI tweeted.
