Nigerian rapper CDQ has alleged that powerful groups and informal networks play a significant role in determining who succeeds in the country’s music industry.
Speaking during a recent interview with content creator JBrandy, the ‘Nowo Soke’ hitmaker claimed that many artists face challenges breaking into the industry unless they are connected to specific circles, gangs, or influential groups.
According to the rapper, musicians who achieve success without aligning themselves with such networks should consider themselves fortunate.
He argued that the entertainment industry has increasingly become one where affiliation with certain groups can influence opportunities and support available to artists.
CDQ further claimed that artists who operate independently often invest heavily in their careers without seeing corresponding results, especially when they lack access to influential industry connections.
The rapper expressed concern over what he described as the growing association between music and gangsterism, urging artists, record label executives, and other stakeholders to work towards changing the culture.
He maintained that the industry should be driven by talent, creativity, and professionalism rather than group loyalties or perceived cult affiliations.
CDQ’s remarks have sparked conversations about gatekeeping, networking, and power structures within Nigeria’s entertainment sector, with observers offering differing views on the extent of such influence in the industry.
