Ever heard the phrase ‘It takes a village’? Well, it certainly rings true in the music industry. While music artists are usually the star of the show, it takes a whole team of experts working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure each song becomes a hit.
Producers, in particular, play a crucial role, and increasingly, they’re stepping out from behind the mixing board to claim their place as artists. This trend isn’t unique to any one country. We have seen producer-musicians transform the industry globally, from hip-hop pioneers like Dr. Dre and Kanye West to pop powerhouses like Pharrell Williams. Yet, Nigeria offers a particularly compelling case study of this phenomenon.
Having worked as a producer and sound engineer in my earlier days at Chocolate City, I have a soft spot for these behind-the-scenes experts. In Nigeria, the list of producers who double as musicians is long and impressive. An example is Don Jazzy, perhaps one of the greatest producers in Africa for all time. He has long doubled as an artist and a producer, making hits with Psquare, Ice Prince, and Olamide. His influence extends far beyond mere production; he’s one of the pioneers of the new Nigeria sound, shifting dance floor tempos from 90 to 140.
Recent sensations Young Jonn, Pheelz, and Sarz have also succeeded as artists, gaining recognition globally. But why are these producers so successful in their careers as musicians? While I may not have all the answers, I would be delighted to share some key insights I believe have contributed to the success of these prolific artists. While hard work, tenacity, and talent are undoubtedly crucial, their ability to both produce and perform their music gives them a significant advantage.
It’s challenging to juggle both responsibilities as they involve two different aspects of the music business, but these skills become invaluable when producing music and connecting with an audience.
You can never underestimate a producer’s keen ear for good sound. The ability to perceive and understand the various elements of music allows them to identify unique melodies and create captivating music. This expertise is a strong foundation for their transition into becoming musicians.
Collaboration is crucial. Over time, many successful producers have built extensive networks within the music industry, collaborating with artists and key industry players to create hit songs. A prime example is Young Jonn. In 2019, he produced Tiwa Savage’s acclaimed track ‘Ello Baby’ and collaborated with rising GenZ sensation Ayra Starr and Tiwa Savage on ‘Stamina’ in 2023. This collaboration quickly gained traction, becoming one of the most played songs on Apple Music in Africa. By leveraging his connections.
Young Jonn and other accomplished producers adeptly navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry, ensuring continued success and relevance.
Big shoutout to everyone who’s had our back! Young Jonn just unleashed #jiggyforever —it’s fire!
Dive into his sonic masterpiece, and let’s make this ride epic together! Please share your favorite track with us, and let’s keep the greatness flowing!
In summary, transitioning from behind-the-scenes roles to the forefront as a musician demands adjustments to a different lifestyle, encompassing live performances, engaging with audiences, and exuding charisma. Through dedicated investment in performance training, these producers refine their stage presence and establish deeper connections with their audience.