Odumodublvck, an Abuja-based hip-hop artist, reveals why he cannot envision himself living in Lagos, despite its reputation as the entertainment hub of Nigeria. During his appearance on the Echoo Room podcast hosted by Quincy Jonze, Odumodublvck expressed his concerns about the city's perceived lack of safety and the potential negative impact it may have on his mental well-being.
Instead, he expressed his preference for residing in Abuja, a city known for its relaxed and tranquil environment, where he enjoys a considerable level of recognition for his music. Odumodublvck compared the saturation of the music industry in Lagos to a crowded fish pond with numerous fishermen, making it difficult for him to stand out and thrive. In contrast, he described Abuja as having a smaller pool of artists, allowing him to gain more visibility and opportunities.
The hip-hop artist emphasized that while he visits Lagos for specific engagements and networking opportunities, he feels it is not safe for his brand, mental space, and financial stability to permanently immerse himself in the Lagos music scene. He believes that in Abuja, where the music industry is less saturated, he has a better chance of being recognized and receiving opportunities.
Odumodublvck's perspective highlights the challenges artists face in highly competitive environments and the need to prioritize their mental well-being and artistic growth. It also sheds light on the regional dynamics within Nigeria's music industry, with different cities offering varying levels of exposure and opportunities for artists.
In his words;
“Let’s say a fish pond has 10 fishes in Lagos and there are a hundred fishermen; in Abuja, there are 10 fishes and there are five fishermen, if you are a fisherman, where would you go and cast your nets?
“With the help of the internet, you can connect anybody. Now I’m in Lagos here na, I’m in Echoo Room na. I came from Abuja, I can go back tomorrow. It’s just funds.
“I’ll come here but to stay here and dabble in that pond, is not safe. It’s not safe for my brand. It’s not safe for my mental space. It’s not safe for my bank accounts. Because, if Wizkid dey do show, before him call me, he go first call Joeboy, Blaqbonez, Fireboy, Oxlade, Buju, Omah Lay. I can keep going on and on, before they get to Odumodu.
“But where we are in Abuja, if Skepta should come, if they don call three artists, dem no call me then dem never call any artist.”