Nigerian singer and rapper Olamide Adedeji, popularly known as Olamide Baddo, has shared insights on dealing with negative criticism, stressing that criticism is an unavoidable aspect of success.
The Wo hitmaker, who has been a defining figure in the Nigerian music industry for over a decade, explained that anyone striving for greatness or aiming to “blow” must be prepared to face public scrutiny and differing opinions.
According to him, how an individual responds to criticism often determines their longevity and impact in their chosen field.
Read Also: Olamide reacts to backlash over declaring Wizkid “greatest Afrobeats artist after Fela”
Speaking in a recent livestream, Olamide addressed his followers, stating, “If you want to blow or be great in life and you don’t want people to talk about you, then you’re not ready. People will come for you and chat sh*t about you, it’s now left for you to be focus.”
His comments come in the wake of widespread backlash following his declaration that Wizkid is the “greatest Afrobeats artist after Fela Kuti.” The statement ignited debates across social media platforms, with fans of other top-tier Nigerian artists, including Burna Boy and Davido, expressing disagreement and criticism.
Olamide’s bold remark sparked a broader conversation about the concept of greatness in Afrobeats and the criteria used to measure influence and artistry in the industry.
Fans debated not only his assessment of Wizkid but also the legacies of other major acts in Nigerian music. While some defended Olamide’s opinion as valid, others accused him of disrespecting fellow musicians.
Addressing the controversy, Olamide emphasised the importance of personal perspective. He insisted that opinions, even from influential figures, should not define someone else’s greatness.
“No reasonable person should let someone else’s opinion define their greatness,” he stated, reinforcing the idea that success and recognition are subjective and often open to interpretation.
Beyond the Wizkid debate, Olamide spoke about criticism as a natural component of professional life.
He highlighted that artists and public figures often face scrutiny simply because of their visibility and achievements. The rapper emphasized the importance of staying focused, developing resilience, and avoiding distractions from external negativity.
Olamide’s reflections also offer a glimpse into his mindset as a seasoned artist. Over the years, he has cultivated a reputation not only for his music but also for his ability to navigate the challenges of fame and industry rivalries.
His approach, which emphasises focus and persistence, reflects his experience in handling controversies, collaborations, and competitive dynamics in the Nigerian music scene.
By prioritising his artistic vision and personal goals over public opinion, he has successfully launched and nurtured the careers of several prominent artists, including Fireboy DML, Asake, and Lil Kesh, through his YBNL record label.
Industry observers also suggest that Olamide’s recent statements are timely reminders for upcoming musicians and entertainers.
In an era where social media magnifies every comment and opinion, developing a thick skin and staying committed to one’s craft are crucial for sustaining long-term success.
Ultimately, Olamide’s insights underline a broader lesson for creatives across industries: criticism is inevitable, but how one responds to it, whether with defensiveness, distraction, or focus, can define personal and professional growth.
By remaining steadfast in his path and advocating for individual perspective, Olamide continues to serve as a model for resilience and determination in the Nigerian music industry.
