Nigerian singer Terry G has spoken out against the trend of dismissing older musicians by telling them their “time has passed.”
In a recent statement, he questioned why this mindset persists in Nigeria, contrasting it with attitudes in Western countries where music legends are honored and respected throughout their lives.
“I hear people say, ‘Your time don pass!’—and it sounds like brain damage,” Terry G said. He pointed out that icons like Jay-Z and Beyoncé continue to receive admiration and respect for their lasting impact.
Highlighting a cultural difference, he noted, “But here in Africa, especially Nigeria, we’re quick to discard our own. That’s why we believe our ancestors were evil, while Western ancestors are seen as gods. It’s time to break free from that mindset.”
Terry G also emphasized personal growth as essential to maintaining relevance; “If you don’t keep adding value to yourself and those around you, your worth will fade—no matter how great you once were. We must do better.”
His comments have sparked conversations about how Nigerian society values its veteran artists and the need to honor their contributions rather than hastily writing them off.
I hear people say, “Your time don pass!”—and it sounds like brain damage.
In the West, legends are respected for life. No one calls jayz or Beyoncé outdated. Their impact is honored.
But here in Africa, especially Nigeria, we’re quick to discard our own. That’s why we believe… pic.twitter.com/jIGJl7XTUB
— Terry G (@IamTerryg) June 25, 2025
Get Fresh updates from NotJustOk as they drop via X and Facebook
