Nigerian vocalist, Simi, has said that it is challenging to be a woman in the Nigerian music industry.
The Duduke crooner took to her Twitter page to disclose the obstacles that women face in creating music, noting that in the industry, people try to pit women against themselves. She also used the opportunity to advise female musicians.
Simi wrote: “To be honest, some of the things I’ve experienced – specifically as a woman – in this industry. They will try to pit you against other women; try to redefine your value, try to get in your head and remodel your self-esteem. And I have even had it easier than many.
“Ati executive oh. Ati audience oh. It comes from all sides. That’s why I am with any woman that is winning in this industry – because hurdle is much dear. Women can hardly get away with the kinds of things many men in the same industry get away with on a regular.”
Simi stated that when a woman in the music industry opens up about her experience, she gets bashed.
“When a woman complains about what she’s experiencing, I see many people saying “what about so and so” does she have two heads. To me, that’s unfortunate, because everybody’s experience is different. Your truth cannot invalidate someone else’s.
“For every woman that is making it, there are tons of women that have been broken. If you stand up for yourself, ‘she’s difficult’. If you’re not a pushover, ‘she’s proud’. If you take time for yourself, ‘she’s lazy.’ If you ask for what you deserve, ‘she’s greedy’,” she added.
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The mother of one went on to revealed that in the music industry a woman might seem difficult because she is fighting her battles alone. She advised female singers to put themselves first and stand up for themselves.
“Have you ever settled down to think that a woman might seem difficult because she’s the only one on her side, so she has to play all these roles? Fighting family, fighting industry, fighting stereotypes!
“And if you’re here to say “men also go through it.” It’s true. Nobody is dragging suffering with you. I know some men have it hard, but I have never seen a mediocre female artist make it!.
“Ladies trying to get ahead in this industry – be careful because many don’t care about you as much as they care about using you; protect yourself. When it’s you versus the industry, put yourself first. Make sure your material is great and don’t ever stop standing up for yourself!” Simi concluded.