Reality TV star and disc jockey, Tolani Baj, has sparked conversations online after advising some of Afrobeats’ biggest legends to consider retiring from music.
In a candid video message shared on her TikTok page, Tolani Baj urged veteran artists who have seemingly “run out of ideas” or “lost their melodies” to stop releasing what she described as “wack music,” warning that they risk watering down their hard-earned brands.
Her comments come amid heated debates surrounding the latest releases from heavyweights like Davido, Wizkid, and Burna Boy, which have faced mixed reactions and criticisms from fans and opposing stan bases on social media.
Tolan Baj did not mince words in her video, saying: “Why is it that Nigerian artists don’t know when to evolve or completely transition into business?”
She continued: “I feel like if your sound no longer resonates with your fans or your audience, [you should] go into business. If you have built an amazing legacy, why do you constantly allow the disrespect of being compared to the new generational artists? What’s wrong with becoming a music executive where you shine light on the new generational artists and become a boss?”
Citing Olamide and Don Jazzy as examples of legendary artists who have successfully transitioned into business and mentorship roles, Tolanibaj added:
“Olamide and Don Jazzy are perfect examples of whom OG artists need to embody. Stop allowing yourself to be disrespected. There are a lot of artists on this table. Please, do better. There is no shame in retiring. Stop dropping nonsense music to water down your brand, especially if your catalogue in the past is A1. I would rather you not even drop music at all and become a lifestyle influencer.”
Her remarks have stirred reactions across the internet, with fans divided, some agreeing with her tough-love advice, while others defended the enduring relevance of Afrobeats icons.
Regardless, Tolanibaj’s message echoes a growing sentiment among listeners who believe that timing and reinvention are crucial to preserving a legendary status in the ever-evolving music industry.