Celebrated Nigerian Disc Jockey (DJ) and music producer, Imohiosen Patrick, popularly known as DJ Neptune, has called on African creatives to take ownership of their art by establishing homegrown streaming platforms.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Rubbin’ Minds, the award-winning DJ emphasised that Africa’s massive population offers a unique opportunity for artists to benefit directly from their craft if they can unite and build their own digital infrastructure.
According to Neptune, the future of Africa’s creative industry lies in collaboration and innovation, not just in depending on foreign platforms to distribute or monetise African content.
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He said:
“We, as African creatives, need to start thinking towards the direction of owning our own streaming platforms because we have the numbers. All DJ Neptune needs to sustain me for the rest of my career is probably just four to five per cent of that population constantly streaming my music, coming to my shows. I’m made for life. We need to come together as one.”
The 35-year-old entertainer stressed that African artists and producers continue to generate massive global revenue for international streaming giants without receiving fair compensation.
He argued that by creating and supporting local platforms, African creatives could control their distribution channels, retain ownership rights, and secure better royalties.
DJ Neptune, who has worked with top African acts like Davido, Mr Eazi, Joeboy, and Olamide, noted that collaboration and unity among industry players are essential for the continent’s music growth.
“You need to understand that collaboration right now is the new gold,” he said. “When we go into the room as one voice, it makes the conversation more interesting and more beneficial to the creatives.”
He added that the power of unity goes beyond music, extending into film, fashion, and digital arts. Neptune urged creatives to look beyond personal success and think about building systems that would benefit future generations.
“It’s not just about being the biggest DJ or artist. It’s about leaving a legacy that helps the next wave of talents thrive without facing the same struggles we went through,” he said.
The disc jockey also reflected on his personal journey in the music industry, expressing gratitude for how far he has come while reaffirming his commitment to keep evolving.
“I’m still as hungry as when I started on the very first day,” he said. “The goal is to be celebrated as a global DJ from Africa, West Africa, Nigeria, to be precise.”
Neptune, who started his career as a radio DJ before breaking into mainstream success, said that despite achieving global recognition, he still strives to push the boundaries of African sound on the international stage.
He explained that the digital age has opened new opportunities for African artists to connect directly with fans worldwide, making it even more important to create sustainable local systems that keep profits and influence within the continent.
“We have the numbers. Africa’s youth population is one of the largest in the world. Imagine if we owned the platforms where we upload our songs and videos. The benefits would go directly to the creatives and the economy,” he added.
DJ Neptune’s remarks have resonated with many industry observers who agree that African artists deserve greater control over how their content is distributed and monetised.
As one of Nigeria’s most respected DJs, Neptune continues to advocate for creative independence, collaboration, and innovation, values he believes will define the future of Africa’s entertainment industry.
