Afro-urban music artist, Malex Betaboi
Afro-urban music artist, Malex Betaboi, has urged Nigerian artists to use their platforms to reflect the struggles of ordinary people and offer messages of hope amid the country’s economic challenges.
Betaboi, who spoke to journalists in Jos, said his music was shaped by personal experiences but was also intended to connect with people facing difficulties that are often hidden from public view.
He said songs such as If You Know and Anyman, featuring Lyta, were written to encourage listeners to remain resilient despite the circumstances they face.
“Like ‘If You Know’ and ‘Anyman’ featuring Lyta, among others, I want them to spark a conversation about the struggles people face behind the scenes and the importance of never giving up, regardless of background,” he said.
The Gboko, Benue State-born singer said his music was a reflection of his experiences, relationships and encounters with people, describing it as “my passion, my story, and my way of connecting with people.”
He also said artists had a role to play in social and political conversations, but cautioned against speaking on issues without understanding or genuine concern.
“Yes, if they genuinely care about the issue. But I believe artists should speak from understanding and authenticity, not pressure,” Betaboi said.
According to him, the growing economic pressures in the country are also affecting the business side of music, with artists having to become more deliberate about how they spend on production, promotion and branding.
“Talent alone isn’t enough. You need branding, marketing, consistency, good relationships and business sense,” he said.
Betaboi added that the rising cost of running a music career had forced him to become more strategic with his resources.
“Everything has become more expensive, from production to promotion. It has taught me to budget better and be more strategic,” he said.
The singer said his recently released EP, Pain & Purpose, was also built around the theme of resilience, with the project intended to remind listeners that difficult experiences do not have to define the end of their stories.
“Pain is not the end of the story. There is always hope and purpose beyond it,” he said.
Betaboi said the message behind his music was drawn from real-life experiences rather than an attempt to simply follow prevailing trends.
He described his sound as urban Afro, characterised by catchy melodies and a blend of English and Pidgin, adding that honesty and the stories behind his music were central to his identity as an artist.
Looking ahead, he said he would continue to expand his music, visuals and performances while building his brand.
He also announced a new single, Delilah, scheduled for release on September 25 under Betterboi Mission Worldwide.
Betaboi said he was encouraged by the direction of his career and hoped to take his music to a wider audience while retaining the personal experiences and messages that shaped his work.
