Nigerian artists’ Grammy losses due to lack of US involvement – DJ Big N

Disc jockey Nonso Temisan Ajufo, popularly known as DJ Big N, has attributed the poor performance of Nigerian musicians at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards to their limited involvement in American music events and seminars.

In a post on his X page, DJ Big N stated that Nigerian artists’ lack of participation in US music events and their failure to join the Recording Academy’s voting body have hindered their chances of winning at the prestigious awards.

The DJ’s comments come after Nigerian musicians, including Davido, Burna Boy, Ayra Starr, Omah Lay, and Wizkid, lost to South African star Tyla in the Best African Music Performance category.

DJ Big N urged Nigerian artists to emulate multiple Grammy-winning Beninese singer Angelique Kidjo, who regularly participates in American music events and is a member of the Recording Academy’s voting body.

He wrote, “It stings deeply that so many talented Nigerians were nominated but didn’t bring the Grammy home this time. But here’s the truth: Legends like @angeliquekidjo and @YoussouNdourSN have shown us the power of being involved beyond just the award night.

“She [Kidjo] is at those seminars, those events, making her presence felt. If we want to change the game, we’ve got to do the same. Let’s step up, join the @RecordingAcad voting body, and be part of the process all year long. That’s how we truly make our mark. Better luck next year, but let’s also be there to shape it.”

He advised Nigerian music creatives and executives to join the Recording Academy as voting members to increase their influence and improve their chances of winning at future Grammy Awards.

“Yes, Nigerians are disappointed about the Grammy outcome, and I feel that too. But let’s turn that energy into action. We need more of us, Nigerian music creatives and execs to join the @RecordingAcad as voting members. That’s how we shape the narrative from the inside. Let’s get involved and make our votes count! Better luck next year”, he wrote.