Nigerian musician Ajibola Danladi, popularly known as Danny Young, has spoken out about how the rise of social media transformed the dynamics of the Nigerian music industry, bringing an end to the oppression once exerted by influential figures.

In a recent episode of his podcast, the singer reflected on a personal experience when a powerful industry player deliberately excluded him from an award nomination, an incident that left a lasting impression on him.

Danny Young explained that prior to the advent of social media, gatekeepers within the industry wielded significant control, often determining which artists thrived and which ones were sidelined.

However, he believes that social media has played a key role in leveling the playing field, allowing creatives to bypass these traditional barriers.

According to Danny Young, the rise of platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube has empowered artists to showcase their talents directly to their audiences, without relying on the approval of industry elites.

This shift, he claims, has dramatically reduced the influence of gatekeepers and opened up the industry to a more diverse range of voices.

“The best thing that ever happened to the Nigerian music industry was the arrival of social media,” he stated.

“It exposed a lot of the people who used to control the narrative. Now, everyone has the freedom to express themselves without fear of being shut down.”

He further elaborated that this newfound freedom is particularly evident in the Gen Z generation of artists, whom he describes as bold and unafraid to speak their minds.

“For me, Gen Z represents more than just a generation. It symbolizes freedom—freedom of speech, freedom of rights, and freedom of expression,” Danny Young explained.

The singer’s remarks highlight how social media has revolutionized not only the music industry but also other creative sectors, giving individuals more power over their own careers.

With artists now able to directly engage with fans, promote their work, and even manage their own brands, the days of relying solely on the approval of influential industry figures are quickly fading.

Danny Young’s story serves as a testament to the profound impact this digital shift has had, offering a glimpse into how technology continues to reshape the Nigerian music landscape.