Nigerian rapper Omoniyi Temidayo Raphael, popularly known as Zlatan Ibile, has issued a candid piece of advice to aspiring musicians, warning them to prepare for the mental health challenges that often come with fame.
Taking to his X page on Thursday, the Zanku crooner told up-and-coming artistes and their sponsors to set aside money for therapy just as they budget for music promotion and marketing.
Zlatan wrote:
“If you get brother or sister wey be fast rising artist and you believe say he or she go blow as una dey keep money for marketing and promo make una dey keep therapist money for one side tooo cos lol!!!”
The post quickly sparked conversation across social media, with many fans agreeing that the Nigerian music industry is both financially and emotionally demanding.
Zlatan’s comments underline a growing recognition that mental health is a crucial but often overlooked aspect of an artiste’s career.
Over the years, several Nigerian musicians have openly shared their struggles with depression, anxiety, and burnout while navigating fame.
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The industry’s high-pressure environment, demanding schedules, constant public scrutiny, financial expectations, and social media criticism, has made mental health support increasingly important.
Back in 2022, singer Omah Lay revealed that his battle with depression worsened after a personal controversy involving his therapist, a revelation that shocked fans and drew attention to the fragile state of many young stars’ mental wellbeing.
Similarly, other artistes, including Waje, Vic O, and Burna Boy, have hinted at or directly spoken about emotional struggles tied to their careers.
Zlatan’s call therefore resonates with a wider conversation around the unseen costs of fame. Many fast-rising acts invest heavily in studio time, music videos, and social media promotions, yet overlook the psychological support required to cope with sudden success.
Known for his energetic style, streetwise lyrics, and viral dance moves, Zlatan has also had his share of challenges in the industry.
Although he did not share whether his advice was drawn from personal experience, his candid tone suggested an awareness of the emotional rollercoaster that comes with fame.
His message adds to the ongoing conversation about how the Nigerian music industry, now a global powerhouse thanks to Afrobeats, can better protect its young stars from the darker side of stardom.
By urging up-and-coming artistes to budget for therapists alongside marketing campaigns, Zlatan has shed light on a crucial but often neglected reality: success is not just about hit songs and viral moments. It also requires emotional resilience and mental stability.
As the industry continues to expand and more Nigerian artistes capture global attention, Zlatan’s words serve as a timely reminder that fame without mental health support can come at a heavy price.
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