I miss the old era of heartfelt music - Timaya

Veteran Nigerian music star Timaya has voiced his concerns about the current state of the music industry, lamenting the decline of emotionally resonant songs and calling out the over-commercialization of artistry.

In a candid statement that has sparked conversation among fans and fellow musicians alike, Timaya said, "I miss the old era of heartfelt music. I miss the old music. Those melodies came from the heart. Now songs feel empty & driven by trends."

The award-winning singer, known for hits like "Dem Mama" and "Bum Bum," expressed disappointment in what he sees as a shift away from authenticity in songwriting and performance. He noted that many of today's artists no longer create music that genuinely reflects their experiences or emotions.

"Most artistes these days no even mean wetin dem dey sing. The music no dey connect," he added, pointing to a disconnect between artists and their lyrics. Timaya attributed part of this problem to the growing reliance on songwriters who, in his view, often prioritize commercial appeal over personal expression.

"There's a misinterpretation somewhere-maybe because so many artistes now rely on songwriters.

And these songwriters aren't necessarily giving you music that fits you; they're giving you what they think will sell."

Timaya's remarks come amid ongoing debates about the balance between artistry and marketability in the global music scene. As algorithms and social media trends increasingly influence what becomes popular, many veterans of the industry echo similar concerns about authenticity being sacrificed for virality.

The statement has sparked a mix of reactions online, with some fans praising Timaya for speaking out, while others argue that music-like all art-must evolve with the times.

Whether viewed as a critique or a call to return to musical roots, Timaya's words reflect a growing sentiment among those who long for music that connects more deeply with the soul.

Written By: DJ RAYA