Maverick Nigerian singer and songwriter, Olawale Olofooro, better known as Brymo, has called out some of the country’s biggest music stars, including Burna Boy and Davido, for what he described as an exploitative trend of jumping on remixes of hit songs by emerging artistes.
In a fiery statement posted on his Instagram story, Brymo accused the A-list stars of using remixes as a strategy to maintain relevance rather than genuinely supporting rising talents.
He argued that instead of allowing young artistes to grow organically, established acts often hijack their songs once they begin to trend.
“Dear Nigerian mainstream ‘A-listers,’ Burna [Boy], Davido and Co, stop jumping on every hit song in a remix, especially releases by newer acts,” Brymo wrote.
He continued: “Let other artistes find their way. The pretending to be helping them reach higher is a ridiculous watch. Stop seeking relevance in the efforts of ones who know little about the business. It’s vile!”
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The blunt remarks immediately gained attention online, with many fans and industry observers weighing in on the controversial statement.
In recent years, remixes have become a common feature of the Nigerian music scene. Up-and-coming artistes who score viral hits often see bigger stars hopping on their songs, sometimes to amplify their reach and other times to capitalise on the buzz.
For example, several breakout songs in Afrobeats have been followed by star-studded remixes featuring Burna Boy, Davido, Wizkid, and other top names. The trend has produced commercial successes but has also sparked criticism from those who believe that it overshadows the originality of the emerging artistes.
Brymo’s criticism reflects a growing sentiment that not every remix is done in good faith. Some critics argue that major stars use remixes as a quick way to stay on the charts, feeding off the popularity of songs that are already trending.
Brymo, who is known for his outspoken views and refusal to conform to industry norms, did not mince words. He described the practice as “vile,” questioning the sincerity of the supposed mentorship it provides.
According to him, the narrative that A-list artistes are “helping” younger musicians by jumping on their tracks is misleading. Instead, he believes the practice stifles originality and denies new artistes the chance to fully enjoy the spotlight their hard work has earned.
His statement has forced fans to revisit a long-standing debate: when established artistes collaborate with newcomers, are they boosting careers or exploiting momentum?
Netizens react to Brymo’s
The reaction on social media has been divided. Some fans agreed with Brymo, saying he had voiced what many in the industry were afraid to admit. They argued that many remixes overshadow the original versions and end up making the big stars appear as though they “rescued” the song.
Others, however, defended the practice, noting that a remix with an A-list star often exposes a song to global audiences and helps younger artistes secure international recognition. They pointed to cases where remixes propelled songs onto global charts and opened doors for collaborations beyond Africa.
Brymo himself is no stranger to controversy. Over the years, he has carved a reputation as one of Nigeria’s most talented yet unconventional artistes. Known for his fusion of Afrobeats, alternative sounds, and traditional influences, he has often distanced himself from the mainstream industry and its commercial-driven practices.
His latest remarks are consistent with his philosophy of authenticity and artistic independence. By calling out Burna Boy, Davido, and other unnamed stars, Brymo reinforces his image as an industry outsider who values originality over commercial strategy.
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Whether one agrees with Brymo or not, his comments have reignited a broader discussion about how power dynamics operate in the Nigerian music scene.
With Afrobeats now enjoying global recognition, questions about ownership, originality, and exploitation are becoming more urgent.
For now, Brymo’s blunt words have added fresh fuel to the debate, challenging the biggest names in Nigerian music to reflect on their motives when they jump on the latest hit.
