Afrobeats singer Chimamanda Pearl Chukwuma, popularly known as Qing Madi, has doubled down on her claims that the Nigerian music industry is "dark," alleging that numerous predators within the sector are attempting to exploit young talents through unfair contract terms.
The 18-year-old artist shared her personal experiences during a recent episode of the Lagos Meets London podcast, describing an industry filled with self-serving executives.
"I have had so many contract issues. So many issues where professionals in the industry were just like... People in the music industry are just out for themselves. They are so greedy and they just want to take advantage of you. The [music] industry is dark," Madi revealed.
Accidental Entry into Music
The young singer explained that her journey into the music industry wasn't planned. "I came into the industry accidentally. I just wanted to write music and get money and go to school, but people started relating to my music and I put out more. But some people's motive is not the purest, so it's going to affect how you work as a creative."
Madi also spoke about the challenges of balancing her youth with her growing career, noting how her mother helps ground her. "My mom tries to remind me that I'm a kid in the most insane ways by asking me to do house chores just so I know I'm still a human being and need to relax. Because sometimes, it doesn't even feel human."
The Dehumanizing Aspect of Fame
The "Soso" hitmaker described feeling objectified in the industry: "Sometimes, it's just like you are a machine and everyone just got papers looking at you trying to figure out how to make money off you. And I'm like, please, I want to go home. It's like you really don't get enough time to be human and be someone's kid. It's really messed up. It's crazy."
Madi's revelations highlight ongoing concerns about artist exploitation in Nigeria's booming music industry, particularly affecting younger talents who may lack the experience or support to navigate complex contractual arrangements.
Her comments come at a time when the Nigerian music scene continues to gain global recognition, raising questions about the need for better protections and industry standards for emerging artists.
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