Veteran Afrobeats artist Gabriel Oche Amanyi, widely recognized as Terry G, has urged Nigerian music fans to show more appreciation for industry pioneers and musical trailblazers, even if they’re no longer topping the charts.

In a heartfelt message posted on his X account (formerly Twitter), the Akpako Master expressed frustration over the tendency of Nigerian audiences to dismiss veteran artists as “irrelevant,” arguing that such attitudes erode the cultural roots of Afrobeats.

“People say, ‘Your time don pass,’ and honestly, that mindset feels like mental decay,” he wrote. “In Western cultures, legends are honored for life. No one would dare call Jay-Z or Beyoncé irrelevant their influence is constantly respected and celebrated.”

Terry G contrasted this with how African, particularly Nigerian, artists are often disregarded once their mainstream popularity wanes. He linked this attitude to a deeper issue of cultural neglect and inferiority.

“In Africa, especially in Nigeria, we forget too quickly. That’s the same reason we demonize our forefathers while worshipping foreign ancestors like deities,” he said.

The singer cautioned that this lack of recognition could ultimately strip Afrobeats of its cultural identity and long-term relevance, regardless of its growing global success.

“We need to shift our perspective,” he emphasized. “If we fail to honor ourselves and those who laid the foundation, even the biggest accomplishments will lose meaning. We must do better.”

Terry G’s words serve as a powerful reminder of the need to value heritage, celebrate our musical icons, and foster a culture that respects its history—rather than forgets it.