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Fela would have been proud of Wizkid, Davido — Sean Dampte

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Tell us about your growing up?
I am From a family of 5, born in Ebute-Metta area of Lagos. Attended Tunwase Primary School in IKEJA, Apapa memorial for my Junior High and spent most of my Senior Years at Unity School Ode-Aye. Strict parents, naughty childhood but did well for that phase. Higher education for BSc and MBA was completed in the US and UK respectively.
You’ve been part of the music industry in Nigeria and the UK. How do you think Nigeria can get to the same level as regards music production with others?
Hahaha, we do well in Nigeria, but yes it can be better. I believe it’s more around investing more into the music itself. Investing in upscaling our music knowledge and create as much as follow trends. But practically, it boils down to Studio equipments and dedication.
Why would a BSc and MBA degree holder dump it all for music?
I wouldn’t use the word ‘dump’. It is such a strong word. Hahahahahaha, it is what has sustained my passion and dedication to music. The degrees are the foundation. And above all, music is life.
And none of your parents protested vehemently against your choice of career?
My parents, like most didn’t fancy my furore into the music world. As time passes, they now appreciate me for what it is and the joy it brings. To me, the friends, fans and family.
Tell us how well afrobeat is doing in the UK. We know it is gaining acceptance in the US?
The AfroBeat scene in the UK is huge. I mean, it is like second culture. It is in the main stream and so it already part of all and everything called music over here.
Whose music, besides Fela’s, is helping much to spread the genre, among this generation of acts?
That is difficult to answer. I believe every artist would have a different view depending on background and understanding of the genre.
How about you? How well would you say your music has done it’s bit?
I believe my music is crossing the boundaries of the genre. Not only is my sound uniquely different but also the brand. I infuse the music cultures of 3 continents, while not losing the essence of the sounds. And I mean, music is food and should be available for every taste.
Tell us more about your latest single, “Million”. What inspired you to compose it and how is it doing generally?
The single “Million” is gaining momentum and am actually happy about its progress. The track was inspired by different emotions at that time. And more than anything else, the world needs more love. So my love for my family, my friends, my country and most importantly my fans is nothing short of one in a Million.
When was the last time you visited Nigeria?
Hahahah, that makes it seem an never in the country. I can assure you I am in Nigeria more often than you know. I was in Nigeria in September.
What did you do to enhance the quality of your music while around?
Hahahahah, music quality is debatable but content and the environment is very important which I enjoy.
If Lagos was fun, why did you leave the country?
The decision to spend most times outside the country is and will always be to experience other cultures. Do not forget that culture is the backbone of any and every kind of music.
Have you been able to achieve what you set out to do in England?
Success is not a destination, if you know what I mean. To keep it simple, it’s a work in progress and we are making progress. Great progress.
From where you are, how can you make meaningful contribution to the music industry back home, especially with technology available to you?
There is so much one can do but the mantra must still remain “It begins with me”. I try to share my knowledge with the folks I work with and more importantly, the advent of technology like you mentioned makes it easy. As part of Savage Music, we help with digital distribution and marketing.
Between Wizkid and Davido, who will you say is really representing Africa in afrobeat?
They both bringing the love and attention the genre deserves. Great ambassadors I must say.
If Fela were alive, who between the two do you think he would rate as best for now? From either the two or others you can think of?
Hahahahah, if Fela were alive, Fela would do what Fela knows is best.
How’s your love life?
At least, “Million” is about women and love.m very straightforward! I ben love and also in women. So my love life is amazing.

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Entertainment

Sean Dampte causes stir after calling on Nigerian Radios, TVs to drop South African content, drags lazy youths

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Sean Dampte

Afrobeats singer Sean Dampte has stirred fresh conversations online after calling on Nigerian media platforms to temporarily suspend the promotion of South African entertainment content, while also delivering a blunt message to young Nigerians about the importance of hard work.

The singer made the remarks during a recent radio interview, where he discussed the need for Nigeria to place greater value on its entertainment industry and cultural influence across Africa.

Speaking passionately, Sean Dampte argued that Nigerian radio stations, television networks, DJs, presenters and other media stakeholders should prioritise local content over South African productions, insisting that Nigeria has contributed immensely to the growth of African entertainment and deserves greater respect in return.

According to the “Ajinomoto” crooner, Nigerian media should leverage its influence to protect the country’s creative industry and ensure Nigerian artistes receive the recognition and support they deserve.

While he did not suggest that the suspension should be permanent, his comments have generated mixed reactions among fans and industry observers. Some have applauded his stance, describing it as a bold call to protect Nigerian interests and promote homegrown talent. Others, however, argue that entertainment should remain a bridge for cultural exchange rather than become entangled in political or diplomatic disagreements.

Beyond the conversation on media and cultural identity, Sean Dampte also addressed Nigerian youths, stressing the importance of diligence and personal responsibility in the face of the country’s economic realities.

Delivering what has since become one of the interview’s most talked-about moments, the singer declared:

“If you no hustle, na Sapa be the penalty.”

The statement quickly resonated across social media, with many users adopting it as a catchy slogan that reflects the everyday struggles faced by many young Nigerians.

Sean Dampte’s comments have continued to spark debate over whether Nigerian media should adopt stronger measures to protect local content or maintain an open approach that promotes entertainment across the African continent.

As discussions continue online, his remarks have once again placed the intersection of music, culture and national identity at the centre of public conversation, proving that the singer is unafraid to voice opinions capable of igniting widespread debate.

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Nigeria must be a place where children can dream without fear — Sean Dampte

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Nigerian singer and humanitarian Sean Dampte has expressed deep concern over reports of mass abductions and growing insecurity across communities in South-West Nigeria, calling for urgent action to protect lives and restore public confidence.

In a heartfelt statement, Dampte lamented the fear and uncertainty facing families, students, and educators in affected communities. He stressed that no child should leave home for school only to become the subject of desperate prayers before returning safely, and that no teacher should have to work under the constant threat of abduction.

Describing the situation as a national concern that transcends politics, ethnicity, religion, and social media debates, the entertainer emphasised that real lives and families are being affected by the crisis.

“My heart is heavy over the reports of mass abductions and the fear spreading across communities in South-West Nigeria,” he said, adding that the pain experienced by victims and their loved ones should never be ignored or normalised.

Sean Dampte expressed solidarity with affected families and communities living in fear, while also joining other Nigerians in demanding immediate and decisive action from authorities. He urged relevant security agencies and government institutions to strengthen the protection of schools, secure vulnerable communities, and ensure the safe return of all abducted persons.

The singer concluded by reiterating his vision for a safer nation, stating that “Nigeria must be a place where children can dream without fear.”

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Adekunle Gold, Simi welcome twins

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Popular Nigerian singer, Adekunle Kosoko, better known as Adekunle Gold, and his wife, Simisola Kosoko, also known as Simi, have welcomed a set of twin babies.

The singer announced the good news via his Snapchat story on Wednesday.

“Asked God for another child and He blessed me double,” Simi wrote.

Although the gender of the babies has not been disclosed, the announcement has since attracted congratulatory messages from fans, colleagues and well-wishers across the entertainment industry.

The development comes months after Simi had hinted at her pregnancy. In December, she shared a video on Instagram, captioned, “From my baby, for my babies,” with the clip showing her baby bump.

The arrival of the twins also comes weeks after Simi featured in a snippet from Adekunle Gold’s recently released music video titled My Love Is the Same.

Adekunle Gold and Simi got married in 2019 after years of friendship and musical collaboration. Both artistes were formerly signed to X3M Music early in their careers and have since remained one of Nigeria’s most celebrated celebrity couples.

The couple welcomed their first child, Adejare Kosoko, fondly called Deja, in May 2020.

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