Veteran music producer ID Cabassa has weighed in on the ongoing debate about who stands as Nigeria’s biggest music star, boldly declaring that Olamide remains the biggest Nigerian artiste despite the dominance of global figures like Davido, Wizkid and Burna Boy.
The veteran producer made the remark during a recent appearance on a podcast hosted by media personality Nedu Wazobia, where discussions about the hierarchy of Nigerian music stars have continued to generate intense debate among fans.
According to Cabassa, conversations about who the biggest artiste is often miss a deeper point about influence and cultural acceptance, which he believes are the true measures of greatness in the music industry.
He explained that popularity alone does not necessarily translate into real acceptance, stressing that some artistes may have a large fan base but may not command the kind of organic respect that cuts across different audiences.
“An artiste might be popular and still not be accepted,” Cabassa said during the conversation, noting that the dynamics of music go beyond fan loyalty.
He added that when an artiste becomes fully accepted within the culture, the relationship with listeners evolves into something much deeper than ordinary fandom.
“When you are accepted, you are no longer operating with just fans; you are operating within the cycles,” he said, suggesting that such artistes become part of the cultural rhythm that drives the industry.
Cabassa did not hesitate when pressed to name the best Nigerian artiste in his view, offering a response that reflected both conviction and admiration.
“If they put a gun to my head and ask me who the best Nigerian artiste is, it is Olamide,” he said firmly, reinforcing his belief in the rapper’s enduring influence.
The respected producer, who once mentored Olamide and produced some of his songs in the early stages of his career, acknowledged that his position might spark debate but maintained that the YBNL boss has earned his place through consistency and impact.
He also cautioned fans against constantly comparing artistes, insisting that music should not be treated like a competitive sport where performers are ranked against one another.
According to him, unlike football, where teams compete for clear winners, music remains an art form meant to be appreciated in different ways by different audiences.
