According to report, Founder of the Headies Awards, Ayo Animashaun, has expressed concern over Nigerians' increasing fascination with the Grammy Awards, urging them to prioritize and support local music platforms instead. He made these remarks during an interview on Channels Television on Wednesday, where he highlighted how the Grammy Awards have seemingly gained more recognition in Nigeria than even in the United States. Animashaun questioned this trend, emphasizing the need for Nigerians to appreciate and uplift their own music industry.
"Grammy is more popular on the streets of Lagos in Nigeria than it is now in America. We have our own for God's sake, kilode gan?" he stated, stressing that while the Grammy Awards hold prestige, they should not overshadow homegrown platforms like the Headies, which have consistently celebrated Nigerian and African talent. He criticized the perception that international awards define success, pointing out that the global spotlight on Nigerian artists should not diminish the value of local recognition.
Animashaun further elaborated on the misconception that global award bodies genuinely prioritize African music. He noted that while Nigerian artists are now gaining nominations, it is largely because of their rising global influence rather than a deep appreciation from these institutions. "We actually think they care about us, but wake up-they don't. We're popping now, so they're giving us one nomination, and the whole country is making noise about it," he remarked, urging Nigerians to be more discerning about how they view global recognition.
The media executive also shared his personal experience with major international awards, revealing that while he has attended events such as the Grammy Awards, American Music Awards, BET Awards, World Music Awards, Oscars, and MTV Awards multiple times, he chose not to attend the Grammys this year. His decision, he implied, was influenced by the growing realization that Nigerians place undue importance on such platforms while underappreciating their own.
Animashaun's comments reflect a broader conversation within Nigeria's entertainment industry about the need to elevate local recognition. The Headies, which he founded, has played a significant role in celebrating Nigerian and African artists, yet many still see international accolades as the ultimate validation of success. His remarks challenge this mindset, calling for a shift towards valuing indigenous music awards just as much as-or even more than-global ones.
With Nigerian music gaining international recognition through Afrobeats and other genres, Animashaun's critique serves as a wake-up call. While global awards can be milestones, he argues that the true measure of success should be the appreciation and support of homegrown institutions. His message to Nigerians is clear: celebrate local talent and platforms with the same enthusiasm given to international awards, as they play a crucial role in shaping and sustaining the nation's music industry.
This year, I didn't go for the Grammys. I was there last year and have attended several others-American Music Awards, BET, World Music Awards, Oscars, MTV-you name it, I've been there many times
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