Cobhams slams Grammys, urges Nigerians to ‘build ours’

By Tolulope Oke

Renowned Nigerian musician and producer, Cobhams Asuquo, has criticised the Grammy Awards following the outcome of the 68th Grammy Awards held in Los Angeles on Sunday night, where no Nigerian artiste won any category.

Asuquo accused the global music body of exploiting Nigerian artistes to boost the economy of the United States, particularly Los Angeles, while offering little in return beyond fleeting recognition.

Speaking in reaction to the awards, the producer said the Grammys often dangle validation before Nigerian artistes “like a carrot,” only for it to slip away.

“I think Grammy is using Nigerians to boost the GDP of Los Angeles. It’s like a carrot dangling in front of us and it goes away,” Asuquo said.

His comments followed the outcome of the Best African Music Performance category, where South African singer Tyla emerged winner again, defeating Nigerian nominees in the category.

Asuquo argued that despite the global dominance of Nigerian music and Afrobeats, the industry still lacks strong, respected institutions capable of rewarding excellence on its own terms.

He urged stakeholders in the Nigerian music space to focus on building credible homegrown award platforms rather than chasing foreign validation.

“I think we need to build something that is ours,” he said, drawing a comparison with American sports culture. “It’s only America that will do Super Bowl and be playing it themselves.”