Popular Nigerian singer and producer, Young John, has expressed frustration over being sidelined in discussions about the country's best musicians. The ‘Dada’ hitmaker took to his X account to share his thoughts, attributing the oversight to his career origins as a producer rather than a singer.

“I see how you all leave me out of conversations prolly cos I started out as a producer. Continue! Time will tell!” he wrote.

Young John’s journey in the music industry has been nothing short of remarkable. Rising to fame as an in-house producer for YBNL Nation, he played a pivotal role in crafting hit tracks for artists like Lil Kesh and Olamide. Despite his undeniable contributions to Nigerian music, his transition into singing seems to be shadowed by his production legacy.

Now signed to Chocolate City, Young John has demonstrated his prowess as a vocalist, delivering chart-topping hits such as Dada, Xtra Cool, Big Big Things, and Stronger. Yet, the singer feels his efforts remain underappreciated in conversations about the nation’s best musicians.

Opinion: Breaking the Stereotype

Young John’s lament highlights an underlying bias in the Nigerian music industry—an artist’s origins often shape their recognition. Starting as a producer, Young John transitioned seamlessly into singing, proving his versatility. However, this dual expertise may inadvertently make him a victim of stereotyping, as the industry tends to compartmentalize talent.

Excluding Young John from top musician debates not only undermines his accomplishments but also reflects the narrow criteria often used to define greatness in the entertainment world. In reality, Young John represents a new breed of multi-dimensional artists breaking boundaries.

The Legacy Speaks for Itself

As the saying goes, “Time will tell.” Young John’s body of work speaks volumes, and his versatility will undoubtedly etch his name in the annals of Nigerian music. Fans and industry stakeholders alike should celebrate such talents, recognizing that greatness is not confined to how an artist begins but rather to the impact they make.

Whether behind the boards or on the mic, Young John’s influence on the Nigerian music scene is undeniable, and his continued success is a testament to his resilience and artistry. It’s only a matter of time before his name becomes an automatic inclusion in such conversations.